Geological Documentation

recording of various operations that are performed during field geological research and serve as primary geological material. Geological documentation includes diaries of geological observations, topographical maps (sometimes material from aerial photographic surveys, such as photographic prints and photomosaics on which geological interpretation is based) with integrated data from geological field investigations (the geological field map), maps drawn by the observer himself, sketches and photographs of natural and artificial exposures of rock, and various types of recording logs. All field observations—data on the location of observation points, time of observation, composition and conditions of rock deposits, the number and nature of rock samples, samples for analysis, and so on—are entered in a notebook (diary). When conducting a geologic survey, the results of observations are entered on a field geologic map. The points of observation (exposure), elements of rock deposits, and borders of the distribution of rocks of various age and composition are indicated on the map. Results from boring are entered in a well log, which primarily contains descriptions of core samples and mud with an indication of the depths from which the samples were taken. Surface and underground exploratory holes are accompanied by sketches of the rocks on the exposed surfaces (on scales from 1:20 to 1:100) and photographic documentation.

Geologic documentation also includes collections of samples of rocks, minerals, and fossils gathered from natural exposures, exploratory holes, or the cores of boreholes during field investigations.