Читать книгу Introduction to Ore-Forming Processes - Laurence Robb - Страница 46

The discipline of “economic geology” and in particular the field of metallogeny (the study of the genesis of ore deposits) remains critical to the teaching of earth systems science. A holistic approach involving the integration of knowledge relevant to the atmosphere, biosphere, and lithosphere is now regarded as essential to understanding the complexities of the Earth system. The development of environmentally responsible policies for the sustainable production of all natural resources will demand a thorough knowledge of the nature and workings of the Earth system. Central to this is an understanding of metallogeny and the nature and origin of the entire spectrum of mineral resources, including the fossil fuels. The classification and description of ore forming processes can most effectively be achieved in terms of host rock associations, namely igneous, hydrothermal, and sedimentary. This breakdown forms the basis for the layout of this book.