Abstract Gypsum and anhydrite are both soluble minerals that form rocks that can dissolve at the surface and underground, producing sulphate karst and causing geological hazards, especially subsidence and sinkholes. The dissolution rates of these minerals are rapid and cavities/caves can enlarge and collapse on a human time scale. In addition, the hydration and recrystallization of anhydrite to gypsum can cause considerable expansion and pressures capable of causing uplift and heave. Sulphate-rich water associated with the deposits can react with concrete and be problematic for construction. This paper reviews the occurrence of gypsum and anhydrite in the near surface of the UK and looks at methods for mitigating, avoiding and planning for the problems associated with these rocks.

Abstract The Quaternary record of the Uinta Mountains of northeastern Utah has been studied extensively over the past decade, improving our understanding of the Pleistocene glacial record and fluvial system evolution in a previously understudied part of the Rocky Mountains. Glacial geomorphology throughout the Uintas has been mapped in detail and interpreted with reference to other well-studied localities in the region. In addition, studies in Browns Park and Little Hole in the northeastern part of the range have provided information about paleoflooding, canyon cutting, and integration of the Green River over the Uinta Mountain uplift. Notable contributions of these studies include (1) constraints on the timing of the local last glacial maximum in the southwestern Uintas based on cosmogenic surface exposure dating, (2) insight into the relationship between ice dynamics and bedrock structure on the northern side of the range, and (3) quantification of Quaternary incision rates along the Green River. This guide describes a circumnavigation of the Uintas, visiting particularly well-documented sites on the north and south flanks of the range and along the Green River at the eastern end.

ABSTRACT Iceland is a young, dynamic, volcanic island with a unique tectonomagmatic setting at the intersection of the Mid-Atlantic Ridge and a mantle hotspot. The combination of this tectonomagmatic setting, a history of glaciation, and the sparse vegetation of a subarctic maritime climate means that Iceland has both intriguing geology and outstanding exposures of this geology. This field trip guide contains an introduction to the geology of Iceland and an itinerary for a 10-day journey around the island. The itinerary consists of 55 stops and 15 optional stops. These stops include exposure to representative examples of most phenomena typical of the island’s geology and all of the major tectonic elements of Iceland. The primary focus of this guide is on volcanic and tectonic features, but topics such as glaciation, geothermal energy, geomorphology, paleontology, soil loss, and geotourism are also addressed.

Abstract: Ctesias (fifth century BC) recounted contemporary Persian beliefs of white Indian animals which had a white horn, black in the centre and flaming red at the pointed tip, projecting from their forehead. Reinforced by classical and medieval writers, travellers, biblical warrant and trade in narwhal tusk, the unicorn became firmly established in European mythology. Increasing popularity as an alexipharmic, prophylactic and counter-poison through the fifteenth to seventeenth centuries led to rising demand and rapidly inflating prices. Debate raged as to which was the ‘true unicorn’ ( Unicornum Verum ), narwhal tusks or mammoth ivory ( Unicornu Fossile ); shavings and powders of both were incorporated into a bewildering array of medicinal mixtures while fraudulent alternatives flooding the markets required the employment of discriminatory tests. Further alternatives with supposedly similar properties included the (probably smectite) clays of Terra Sigillata Strigoniensis or Terra Silesiaca ( Unicornu Minerale ), and an alchemical preparation ( Unicornu Solare ). The supposed therapeutic application and wide range of delivery systems of all types of unicorn horn medicines are reviewed in detail for the first time. Particularly popular as an antidote in plague medicines, the use of alicorn (unicorn horn) simples declined to extinction with the increasingly empirical approach to pharmacy of the mid-eighteenth century.

Abstract With its rich lithological variation, upland, lowland and coastal settings, and past climatic changes, the UK presents a wide variety of landslide features that can pose significant hazards to people, construction and infrastructure, or simply add to landscape character and conservation value of an area. This chapter describes and defines the nature and extent of this landsliding; the causes, effects and geological controls on failure; and their mitigation and stabilization. A risk-based approach to landslide management is outlined with qualitative and semi-quantitative methodologies described. Numerous case studies are presented exemplifying landslide and slope stability hazards in the UK.