Peace River Formation, Geological formation in northern Alberta, Canada
The Peace River Formation is a geological layered sequence in northern Alberta comprising different rock types deposited over vast time periods. It contains greywacke, coal, marine sandstone, and dark shale arranged in distinct stratigraphic units throughout the Western Canadian Sedimentary Basin.
Geologist McConnell first documented this layered sequence in 1893 along the Peace River, revealing its importance for understanding North American geological history. The discovery proved essential for research into sedimentary deposits across western Canada.
The formation contributes to scientific research of paleoenvironments and provides data for understanding the continental evolution of North America.
This formation is mainly accessible through scientific drilling and field surveys in the region rather than public viewing. The deeper layers are primarily explored by energy companies searching for natural gas resources.
The formation divides into three distinct subunits - Paddy, Cadotte, and Harmon - each with its own rock characteristics and geographical spread. This division helps geologists distinguish different periods of ancient environmental history.
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