the stratigraphy and structural history of the mesozoic and cenozoic ...

1.4 Research Objectives
This thesis has three main objectives.
Firstly, a seismic stratigraphic analysis of the Mesozoic and Cenozoic
stratigraphy, definition of seismic sequences, tying these sequences to available well data
and publicly available information, and developing a framework for the description and
interpretation of the depositional history of the slope within the study area.
Secondly, an analysis of the tectonic elements that deform pre-Mesozoic through
Quaternary stratigraphy, with particular emphasis on the timing of tectonic deformation
in relation to defined seismic stratigraphy packages, and the analysis of the related
growth stratal architecture.
A third objective of the research is an analysis of the salt tectonics with reference
to the seismic stratigraphy, in order to provide a more integrated stratigraphic analysis of
the area. This provides a method for assessment of the importance of salt-sediment
interactions across the study area.
1.5 Data and Methods
At the request of BP Canada, TGS-NOPEC of Houston, Texas, provided to me a
digital data set of approximately 4 500 kilometers of high quality seismic data located
over the central Scotian Slope (Figure 1-3). The data included a grid of forty 80-fold 2D
seismic lines, each approximately 80-120 kilometers in length, with an average line
spacing of approximately six kilometers. The seismic data is of 1998-99 vintage.
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