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Biogenerated Rock Structures

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Abstract

Earth as a planet under firm control of life processes since more than 3 Ga has evolved global biogeochemical cycles, biogeomorphogenetic processes and structures also called plates or global tectonics including global climate and movement of water masses. These processes have deep impact on the shape and thickness of continental land masses as well as the chemistry and mineralogy of the crust and upper mantle. Biogenerated rock structures in this sense can be visualised through the analysis of sedimentary rock structures exhibiting e.g., biogenerated stromatolites, onkolites, oolites or cementing structures of sandstones which clearly preserve biochemical processes and biophysical structures. Further the chemical composition including the segregation of mineral layers, ore deposits, sedimentary and metamorphic rocks and granites hint to sun powered energy storage (gas, gas hydrates, hydrocarbons, coal) and tectonic processes initiated or at least modified through the enormous input of external energy through reduced carbon and iron compounds. One can state with considerable reliability that a planet under control of life must exhibit rock chemistry, mineralogy and structures typical for the impact of life on the geodynamic cycles. This includes the idea of top-down geotectonics instead of bottom-up processes.

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  1. Geomicrobiology, ICBM, Carl von Ossietzky Universität Oldenburg, 16111, Oldenburg, Germany

    W. E. Krumbein

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Krumbein, W.E. Biogenerated Rock Structures. Space Sci Rev 135, 81–94 (2008). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11214-007-9289-9

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