应用信息技术提升古地理学研究水平

古地理学是研究地质历史时期自然地理特征的地质科学，其研究目标是海洋和陆地的变迁历史及其内部古地理单元的分布和特征。中国的古地理学研究是多来源的和多分支学科的，主要来源于地层学、大地构造学、古生物学、沉积岩石学、第四纪地质学等，相应地产生了多个古地理学分支学科。不同分支学科形成多种类型的古地理图，它们是古地理学研究成果的集中体现。现代计算机和信息技术的飞速发展为古地理学研究提供了一系列新的研究手段。多种多样的信息采集和管理方法可以建立不同时期的古地理学综合数据库；空间数据模型为组织多来源和多尺度的古地理信息提供框架；三维数据建模和虚拟现实技术为古地理环境重建营造了必要条件；互联网络技术的发展可使古地理学研究成果更好地为用户服务。古地理学研究与信息技术的融合不仅能使研究手段和水平得以提升，还能更好地为地质历史时期中沉积矿产勘查提供有效的技术支持。

Application of information technology to improvement of palaeogeographic research

Palaeogeography is a branch of geosciences,which studies natural geographical features in the geological history.The research targets are the evolution history of oceans and continents,and the distribution and characteristics of the internal palaeogeographic units.Palaeogeographic research in China mainly originates from stratigraphy,tectonics,palaeontology,sedimentary petrology,Quaternary geology,etc.Consequently various branch disciplines are developed.There are many types of palaeogeographic maps.They are the concentrated expression of the results of palaeogeographic studies.The development of modern computer and information technology provides a series of new methods for palaeogeographic research.Palaeogeographic database can be established with various information acquisition and management methods.Palaeogeographic information of multi-source and multi-scale can be organized with a spatial data model.Palaeogeographic environments can be reconstructed with the 3D modeling and a virtual reality technique.Palaeogeographic research achievements can also offer better service with the development of internet technology.The syncretism of palaeogeographic research and information technology can lead to the advancement of the research method and quality,it can also supply effective technology supports for sedimentary mineral deposits in geological history.