Factors Influencing Sedimentation in the Shallow Neritic Environment: ABSTRACT

Abstract

Sedimentation in the shallow neritic environment is influenced by the interplay of numerous factors. Both type and thickness of the sediment differ depending upon the relative significance of these factors. The chief factors to be considered are tectonics, physiography, climate, biological activity, and associated energy relationships. The tectonic intensity of the source area and depositional site of the sediments, although primary factors, may be surpassed in significance by the factors of climate and biological activity. Variation of intensity of uplift and deformation of the source area provide primary control on the composition of the source area and the sediment derived therefrom. Sediments range from mature to immature, and from fine to coarse terrigenous clastics. The same variation of tectonic activity provides variations in physiography of the source area and accompanying energy relationships. Physiographic variations may produce both local and regional climatic variations as a third order factor. Climate and its influence on and control of vegetation will control weathering, resulting soils, and erosion. Thus climate may be the primary factor in the type and amount of sediment derived from the source area. Tectonic intensity of the depositional site controls the thickness of the sedimentary sequence, with climate and biological activity providing the influence modifying the type and character of the sediment deposited. Wave and current energy related to storms modify the sediment type and distribution. End_of_Article - Last_Page 340------------