PURBECK BEDS Meaning and
Definition
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The Purbeck beds refer to a geological formation found in the southern part of England, specifically within the Isle of Purbeck in Dorset. They represent a sequence of sedimentary rock layers that were deposited during the late Jurassic period, approximately 145 to 140 million years ago.
The Purbeck beds consist primarily of alternating, thin layers of limestone, marl, and clay. The limestone layers are composed of calcium carbonate and contain various marine fossils such as belemnites, ammonites, and shells of bivalves. These layers demonstrate a cyclical pattern of deposition, indicating changes in sea levels and environmental conditions during the Jurassic era.
The Purbeck beds have been extensively studied by geologists due to their exceptional fossil preservation and rich diversity. They provide valuable insight into the ancient marine ecosystems and offer clues about the geological processes that shaped the region.
Furthermore, the Purbeck beds hold economic significance as a source of limestone, which has been quarried for building materials, including the renowned Purbeck stone. This stone has been used in the construction of many notable buildings and landmarks across England.
Overall, the Purbeck beds represent an important geological formation that offers a glimpse into the Earth's ancient past, enabling scientists to unravel the mysteries of the Jurassic era and its biodiversity.
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In geol., the uppermost members of the Oolite proper, consisting of argillaceous and calcareous shales, and fresh-water limestone's and marbles.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for PURBECK BEDS
- ourbeck beds
- lurbeck beds
- -urbeck beds
- 0urbeck beds
- pyrbeck beds
- phrbeck beds
- pjrbeck beds
- pirbeck beds
- p8rbeck beds
- p7rbeck beds
- puebeck beds
- pudbeck beds
- pufbeck beds
- putbeck beds
- pu5beck beds
- pu4beck beds
- purveck beds
- purneck beds
- purheck beds
- purgeck beds
Etymology of PURBECK BEDS
The word "Purbeck" in "Purbeck beds" is derived from the Purbeck Hills, which are situated in Dorset, England. The Purbeck beds refer to a sequence of rock layers that were deposited during the Late Jurassic period (around 150 million years ago) in that region. These beds consist of limestone, clay, and shale, and they are significant because they contain a rich fossil record of various marine lifeforms from that time. The term "Purbeck beds" was coined by geologists to describe these specific geological formations found in Purbeck.
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