Westphalian
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- noun
- /wɛstˈfeɪliən/
- Specialized
- Many fossils from the Westphalian provide insight into ancient swamp ecosystems.
Examples
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The coal deposits in this region were formed during the Westphalian stage.
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Geologists identified the rock layer as belonging to the Westphalian period.
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The Westphalian period is known for its lush swamp forests.
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During the Westphalian phase, coal production increased dramatically.
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During the Westphalian stage of the Upper Carboniferous, lush swamp forests flourished across Europe.
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The coal deposits formed in the Westphalian period are significant for understanding European geology.
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Geologists study the Westphalian to learn about the climate and ecosystems of ancient Earth.
Synonyms
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A period in Earth's history about 359 to 299 million years ago when many coal beds formed
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A period long ago when swamp forests made much coal
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A late part of Earth's history 310 to 280 million years ago with swamp forests that formed coal
A time about 310 to 280 million years ago with warm swampy land where much coal formed
Surface Forms
Morphology
Westphalian = Westphalia (semi-transparent) = Westphalia + ian
Named after the region, but used as a technical geological stage; the specialized geological timeframe is not deducible from the place name alone.
Etymology
In geology, Westphalian was named after the region Westphalia because the rock layers and fossils were first studied there, and those layers are known for forming coal, so calling them Westphalian links the rocks to that time and place.