1 - Introduction

Abstract

This chapter presents the Quaternary studies in Israel, concepts and aims of the present synthesis, and terminology. During the beginning of the twentieth century, interest in the Quaternary geology of Israel arose as a result of the work and dedication of L. Picard. He studied most of the sedimentary and volcanic formations attributed to the Quaternary age and placed the cornerstone for the study of this period. The main problem throughout studies in various disciplines was the lack of contact between investigators, which resulted from the great variety of the topics and the high level of necessary specialization. Natural processes throughout the Quaternary have been influenced by several main factors such as tectonic and volcanic activity, climatic changes, human settlement patterns, and eustatic sea-level changes. The correlations of Quaternary formations are based on recognition of sea level and of climatically controlled processes of erosion and deposition. The term Quaternary was first suggested in 1829 by a French geologist to designate young sedimentary formations.