Reconstruction of Eolian Sequences--A Function of Scale, Jurassic Page Sandstone, Arizona: ABSTRACT

Abstract

Interpretation of sequences of ergs and bed forms that comprise an eolian unit is strongly dependent on the scale of mapping. A pentagon-shaped, three-dimensional outcrop of eolian Middle Jurassic Page sandstone near Page, Arizona, measuring 36 m high and nearly 1 km in perimeter, was mapped with the aid of an electronic tacheometer. The extent and orientation of bounding surfaces and sets of cross-strata were mapped in detail, foreset orientation were measured, and a general depiction was made of the lateral and vertical distribution of stratification types within sets and of features associated with the surfaces. The level of mapping is at a middle scale with respect to architectural elements and proved adequate for an interpretation of most bed forms in terms of shape (two or three dimensions, sinuosity, symmetry, and crestline-phase relationships), size (height and width), aerodynamics (overall primary and secondary airflow patterns), and migration behavior (degree of climb and recognition of cyclicity). These interpretations allow the determination of bed-form hierarchy (simple dunes or draas) and of the bed-form type according to the descriptive (crescentic, linear) and dynamic (transverse, oblique, longitudinal) classifications. In conjunction with this level of mapping, large-scale or regional mapping was used in order to identifymore » distinct, stacked, dune-field, and erg deposits that comprise the Page sandstone. Local mapping of the out-crop at a fine scale was necessary for refined interpretation of cyclicity, bed-form size, migration rate, and airflow pattern.« less