Geological sampling

 Sedimentary layers are formed on the ocean floor by the accumulation of particles such as mud, sand, and gravel over a long period of time. By collecting sediments from the seafloor and studying their characteristics in detail, we try to decipher the past events (geological events, changes in sea water temperature, etc.) that occurred during the formation of the sedimentary layers, and use this information to predict the future of the global environment. Sediments are also collected for the exploration of resources lying beneath the seafloor and for the collection of organisms living on the seafloor.

 If we look further down in the sedimentary layers, we find a layer of solid rock (the earth's crust). By collecting rocks from the crust and analyzing their chemical composition and structure, we can learn about their formation and degeneration. The distribution characteristics of the rocks that make up the earth's crust are closely related to the plate motions that are believed to cause earthquakes, and it is hoped that the collection of rock samples will help elucidate the mechanisms that generate earthquakes.

→Method of Ocean Observation (4) Geological sample collection