Research in carbonate geology over the last year continued many trends prevalent the year before, not the least of which has been the study of modern carbonate platform margins. (Author/BB)

Discusses recent research on cratering and meterorite impact on astral bodies. (MR)

Describes the eruption of inflammable natural gas from the ground surface in the Edith area near Camp Houston. Determining the source of the gas, the results established the Chester-Oswago interval as the most likely source. The surface venting has declined steadily; the likelihood of finding its cause is also described. (SK)

Describes eruption steps in Mt. St. Helens' top surface deformation: constant shaking of earthquakes, minor steaming from vents, and sudden catastrophic eruption. Explosions caused black projectile-laden ash clouds, vertical white steam clouds, and vertical gray ash-laden clouds. (SK)

The past year has seen the development of certain fields of geochemical research including Nd-Sm isotope studies of meteorites and ancient terrestrial rocks; the use of the consortium approach of assembling a multidisciplined team to tackle a problem; and the handling and analysis of small quantities of materials. (Author/MA)