Example geology dissertation topic 2:

A study of cave development and joint sets in Yorkshire: with specific reference to the area near the ‘Odin Mine’.

Located within the Hope Valley of Yorkshire, the ‘Odin Mine’ is not only a fascinating geological site but is also been believed to have been a place of human endeavour for thousands of years. Initially a secondary literature review, this dissertation provides an additional primary data through recording the development of existing stalagmites and stalactites over the last five years as well as measuring the daily flows of water over certain points within the cave network. In working upon existing joint sets within the cave, this dissertation will additionally, as part of its primary work, undertake a detailed 3-D mapping and simulation of a section of the cave for use by future visitors.

Suggested initial topic reading:

• Banks, D., Burke, S. P. andGray, C. G. (1997).Hydrogeochemistry of coal mine drainage and other ferruginous waters in north Derbyshire and south Yorkshire, UK.Quarterly Journal of Engineering Geology and Hydrogeology, 30(3), pp. 257-280.
• Donnelly, L.J. (2006)The Mam Tor landslide, geology and mining legacy around Castleton, Peak District National Park, Derbyshire, UK. Engineering Geology for Tomorrow’s Cities, Proceedings of the 10th Congress of the International Association for Engineering Geology and the Environment, Nottingham, UK (pp. 6-10).
• Ford, T. D. and Rieuwerts, J. H. (1976). Odin Mine, Castleton, Derbyshire. Bulletin of the Peak District Mines HistoricalSociety, 6(4), pp. 1-54.