A1: Geology and geophysics of gas hydrate deposits

(R. Matsumoto, Tokyo; G. Bohrmann, Bremen)

Gas hydrates are generally formed at moderate pressure and low temperature in marine and permafrost environments. Although the existence of gas hydrates has now been known for decades, our understanding of their potential impact on slope stability, the biosphere, carbon cycling, and climate change is still in its infancy. Laboratory and field studies at gas-hydrate-bearing sites, including several drilling expeditions in the past decade, have provided critical background data on the conditions of gas hydrate stability, and provide an overall view of the composition and distribution of gas hydrates in nature. This session will include geological and geophysical as well as multi-disciplinary contributions and observations, experimental and theoretical studies.