techniques in arch geology

Historical Context of Earthquakes

  • Roman Province Earthquake: 370 AD quake destroyed the Roman city of Beth Shean. Mentioned by Josephus during the same time as the Battle of Actium (31 BC). Recorded in Cyprus, 360 km southwest.

  • Jerusalem Earthquake: Described by Zachariah in 756 BC, characterized by classic strike-and-dip movement.

  • Jericho's Earthquake: Historic earthquake on July 11, 1927, caused significant destruction in Jerusalem, highlighting Jericho's vulnerability to seismic activity.

Geomorphic Mapping Techniques

Identification Techniques

  • Methods for Mapping: Landforms identified using:

    • Planimetric maps

    • Aerial/satellite imagery

    • Ground reconnaissance

  • Data Utilization: Remotely sensed data used to address archaeological questions by mapping geomorphic features.

Types of Imaging

  • Aerial/Satellite Images: Effective for local/regional scale analysis but may be limited in vegetative cover.

    • Infrared and microwave imaging preferred in denser vegetative areas for better landform classification and mineralogy.

  • Ground Reconnaissance: Conducted through walkover surveys and subsurface investigations (hand and mechanical methods).

Geomorphic Mappings' Goals

  • To create comprehensive maps detailing:

    • Morphology

    • Landform

    • Drainage patterns

    • Surficial deposits

    • Tectonic features and processes

  • GIS Use: Geographic Information Systems allow for detailed digital mapping of geomorphic features and provide scalable data for analysis.

Mapping Data Sources

Digital Terrain Mapping

  • Digital Terrain Models (DTM): Utilize products from agencies like the US Geological Survey (USGS) for constructing higher resolution topographic maps.

  • GIS Mapping: Essential for effective data presentation and understanding complex geologies and landforms.

Generating Geological Maps

  • Geological maps display:

    • Distribution of rock units

    • Geological structure including elevation, strike, and dip

    • Rocks indicated with standardized symbols for clarity.

Scale and Orientation

  • Mapping Guidelines:

    • Elevation and orientation consistency across geological maps is critical for accurate interpretation.

    • Contour and strike measurements aid in understanding geological formations.

LiDAR Technology

  • Emergence of LiDAR: LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) has revolutionized mapping, providing detailed terrain models and allowing for bare-earth data extraction.

    • Applications: Useful in both archaeological and geological mapping, it integrates with photogrammetry for enhanced accuracy and detail.

Structure from Motion (SfM)

  • Development in SfM: Inexpensive method using drone and camera images for detailed 3D modeling, proving comparable to LiDAR for many applications.

  • Women and archaeologists utilize SfM for site documentation and analysis, enhancing mapping capabilities.

Drones in Mapping

  • Drone Technology: Utilized for both military and archaeological purposes, offering low-cost alternatives for complex site imaging.

  • Photogrammetry with Drones: Pairing drone imagery with photogrammetry enhances 3D modeling potential and site documentation.

Digital Mapping Tools

  • Geographic Software: ArcGIS and Google Earth allow for the integration and analysis of geomorphic maps with embedded geographic coordinate data.

  • Mobile Applications: Applications like ArcheoSurvey enhance field data collection and management.

Types of Specialized Maps

Paleogeographic Maps

  • Detail the distribution of ancient land and sea, particularly during geological events like glaciations.

Isopach Maps

  • Show thickness of strata using core data, helpful in understanding archaeological contexts but less commonly applied.

Lithofacies Maps

  • Define sedimentary environments and ensure accurate archaeological site representation.

Soil Chronosequence Study

  • Research Example: Study of soil properties and ages in the Catawba River section highlights soil morphology changes over time, indicating processes affecting sedimentation and landscape evolution.