Relationships between the trace element composition of sedimentary rocks and upper continental crust
TL;DR: In this paper, the upper crustal abundances of several trace elements, including rare earth elements (REEs), were compared to the upper continental crust of the United States, and the results showed that no revisions are needed for these elements.
Abstract: [1] Estimates of the average composition of various Precambrian shields and a variety of estimates of the average composition of upper continental crust show considerable disagreement for a number of trace elements, including Ti, Nb, Ta, Cs, Cr, Ni, V, and Co. For these elements and others that are carried predominantly in terrigenous sediment, rather than in solution (and ultimately into chemical sediment), during the erosion of continents the La/element ratio is relatively uniform in clastic sediments. Since the average rare earth element (REE) pattern of terrigenous sediment is widely accepted to reflect the upper continental crust, such correlations provide robust estimates of upper crustal abundances for these trace elements directly from the sedimentary data. Suggested revisions to the upper crustal abundances of Taylor and McLennan [1985] are as follows (all in parts per million): Sc = 13.6, Ti = 4100, V = 107, Cr = 83, Co = 17, Ni = 44, Nb = 12, Cs = 4.6, Ta = 1.0, and Pb = 17. The upper crustal abundances of Rb, Zr, Ba, Hf, and Th were also directly reevaluated and K, U, and Rb indirectly evaluated (by assuming Th/U, K/U, and K/Rb ratios), and no revisions are warranted for these elements. In the models of crustal composition proposed by Taylor and McLennan [1985] the lower continental crust (75% of the entire crust) is determined by subtraction of the upper crust (25%) from a model composition for the bulk crust, and accordingly, these changes also necessitate revisions to lower crustal abundances for these elements.
Citations
More filters
TL;DR: In this paper, the present-day composition of the continental crust, the methods employed to derive these estimates, and the implications of continental crust composition for the formation of the continents, Earth differentiation, and its geochemical inventories are discussed.
Abstract: This chapter reviews the present-day composition of the continental crust, the methods employed to derive these estimates, and the implications of the continental crust composition for the formation of the continents, Earth differentiation, and its geochemical inventories. We review the composition of the upper, middle, and lower continental crust. We then examine the bulk crust composition and the implications of this composition for crust generation and modification processes. Finally, we compare the Earth's crust with those of the other terrestrial planets in our solar system and speculate about what unique processes on Earth have given rise to this unusual crustal distribution.
7,831 citations
TL;DR: In this paper, a synthesis of the use of selected trace elements as proxies for reconstruction of paleoproductivity and paleoredox conditions is presented, and the combined used of U, V and Mo enrichments may allow suboxic environments to be distinguished from anoxic-euxinic ones.
2,708 citations
2,635 citations
919 citations
TL;DR: In this article, the authors explored the question of whether these features are created by subduction or are recycled from subducting sediment using Th/La, which is low in oceanic basalts ( 0·25) and varies in arc basalts and marine sediments (0·09−0·34).
Abstract: Arc magmas and the continental crust share many chemical features, but a major question remains as to whether these features are created by subduction or are recycled from subducting sediment. This question is explored here using Th/La, which is low in oceanic basalts ( 0·25) and varies in arc basalts and marine sediments (0·09–0·34). Volcanic arcs form linear mixing arrays between mantle and sediment in plots of Th/La vs Sm/La. The mantle end-member for different arcs varies between highly depleted and enriched compositions. The sedimentary end-member is typically the same as local trench sediment. Thus, arc magmas inherit their Th/La from subducting sediment and high Th/La is not newly created during subduction (or by intraplate, adakite or Archaean magmatism). Instead, there is a large fractionation in Th/La within the continental crust, caused by the preferential partitioning of La over Th in mafic and accessory minerals. These observations suggest a mechanism of ‘fractionation & foundering’, whereby continents differentiate into a granitic upper crust and restite-cumulate lower crust, which periodically founders into the mantle. The bulk continental crust can reach its current elevated Th/La if arc crust differentiates and loses 25–60% of its mafic residues to foundering.
911 citations
References
More filters
01 Jan 1985
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors describe the composition of the present upper crust and deal with possible compositions for the total crust and the inferred composition of lower crust, and the question of the uniformity of crustal composition throughout geological time is discussed.
Abstract: This book describes the composition of the present upper crust, and deals with possible compositions for the total crust and the inferred composition of the lower crust. The question of the uniformity of crustal composition throughout geological time is discussed. It describes the Archean crust and models for crustal evolution in Archean and Post-Archean time. The rate of growth of the crust through time is assessed, and the effects of the extraction of the crust on mantle compositions. The question of early pre-geological crusts on the Earth is discussed and comparisons are given with crusts on the Moon, Mercury, Mars, Venus and the Galilean Satellites.
12,457 citations
TL;DR: In this paper, a new calculation of the crustal composition is based on the proportions of upper crust (UC) to felsic lower crust (FLC) to mafic lower-crust (MLC) of about 1.6:0.4.
5,317 citations
TL;DR: A survey of the dimensions and composition of the present continental crust is given in this paper, where it is concluded that at least 60% of the crust was emplaced by the late Archean (ca. 2.7 eons).
Abstract: A survey is given of the dimensions and composition of the present continental crust. The abundances of immobile elements in sedimentary rocks are used to establish upper crustal composition. The present upper crustal composition is attributed largely to intracrustal differentiation resulting in the production of granites senso lato. Underplating of the crust by ponded basaltic magmas is probably a major source of heat for intracrustal differentiation. The contrast between the present upper crustal composition and that of the Archean upper crust is emphasized. The nature of the lower crust is examined in the light of evidence from granulites and xenoliths of lower crustal origin. It appears that the protoliths of most granulite facies exposures are more representative of upper or middle crust and that the lower crust has a much more basic composition than the exposed upper crust. There is growing consensus that the crust grows episodically, and it is concluded that at least 60% of the crust was emplaced by the late Archean (ca. 2.7 eons, or 2.7 Ga). There appears to be a relationship between episodes of continental growth and differentiation and supercontinental cycles, probably dating back at least to the late Archean. However, such cycles do not explain the contrast in crustal compositions between Archean and post-Archean. Mechanisms for deriving the crust from the mantle are considered, including the role of present-day plate tectonics and subduction zones. It is concluded that a somewhat different tectonic regime operated in the Archean and was responsible for the growth of much of the continental crust. Archean tonalites and trond-hjemites may have resulted from slab melting and/or from melting of the Archean mantle wedge but at low pressures and high temperatures analogous to modern boninites. In contrast, most andesites and subduction-related rocks, now the main contributors to crustal growth, are derived ultimately from the mantle wedge above subduction zones. The cause of the contrast between the processes responsible for Archean and post-Archean crustal growth is attributed to faster subduction of younger, hotter oceanic crust in the Archean (ultimately due to higher heat flow) compared with subduction of older, cooler oceanic crust in more recent times. A brief survey of the causes of continental breakup reveals that neither plume nor lithospheric stretching is a totally satisfactory explanation. Speculations are presented about crustal development before 4000 m.y. ago. The terrestrial continental crust appears to be unique compared with crusts on other planets and satellites in the solar system, ultimately a consequence of the abundant free water on the Earth.
3,656 citations
Book•
12 Aug 1981
TL;DR: In this article, the authors define Orogenic Andesite and discuss its properties and properties, including the following: 1.1 Topography, gravity, heat flow, and conductivity.
Abstract: 1 What is "Typical Calcalkaline Andesite"?.- 1.1 Introduction.- 1.2 Definition of Orogenic Andesite.- 1.3 Magma Series Containing Orogenic Andesites.- 1.4 Overview.- 2 The Plate Tectonic Connection.- 2.1 Spatial Distribution of Active Orogenic Andesite Volcanoes.- 2.2 Initiation of Subduction.- 2.3 Cessation of Subduction.- 2.4 Collisions.- 2.5 Reversal of Subduction Polarity.- 2.6 Forearc and Transform Fault Volcanism.- 2.7 Anomalously Wide Volcanic Arcs.- 2.8 Andesites Clearly Not at Convergent Plate Boundaries.- 2.9 Conclusions.- 3 Geophysical Setting of Volcanism at Convergent Plate Boundaries.- 3.1 Topography, Gravity, Heat Flow, and Conductivity.- 3.2 Crustal Thickness, Structure, and Age.- 3.3 Upper Mantle Beneath the Forearc, Volcanic Arc, and Backarc Regions.- 3.4 Dipping Seismic Zones (Benioff-Wadati Zones) and Underthrust Lithosphere.- 3.5 Partial Melting and Magma Ascent Beneath Volcanic Arcs.- 3.6 Magma Chambers Beneath Orogenic Andesite Volcanoes.- 3.7 Conclusions.- 4 Andesite Magmas, Ejecta, Eruptions, and Volcanoes.- 4.1 Characteristics of Andesite Magma.- 4.1.1 Temperature.- 4.1.2 Density.- 4.1.3 Rheology.- 4.1.4 Miscellaneous Properties and Applications.- 4.2 Andesite Rock, Eruption, and Edifice Types.- 4.3 Variations in Magma Composition During and etween Historic Andesite Eruptions.- 4.4 Variations in Rock Composition During Evolution of Stratovolcanoes.- 4.5 Conclusions About Andesite Magma Reservoirs.- 4.6 Stress Fields and Volcano Spacings Within Volcanic Arcs.- 4.7 Relationships Between the Timing of Arc Volcanism and Plate Movements.- 4.8 Magma Eruption Rates at Convergent Plate Boundaries.- 4.9 Relative Proportions of Andesite.- 5 Bulk Chemical Composition of Orogenic Andesites.- 5.1 Rock Analyses: Significance, Averages, and Representative Samples and Suites.- 5.2 Major Elements.- 5.2.1 Silica Contents and Harker Variation Diagrams.- 5.2.2 Alkalies.- 5.2.3 Iron and Magnesium.- 5.2.4 Titanium.- 5.2.5 Aluminum and Calcium.- 5.2.6 Phosphorous.- 5.2.7 CIPW Normative Mineralogy.- 5.3 Volatiles.- 5.3.1 Water.- 5.3.2 Carbon Dioxide.- 5.3.3 Sulfur.- 5.3.4 Halogens.- 5.3.5 Oxygen.- 5.4 Trace Elements.- 5.4.1 The K-Group: Rb, Cs, Ba, and Sr.- 5.4.2 REE Group: Rare Earth Elements Plus Y.- 5.4.3 The Th Group: Th,U, and Pb.- 5.4.4 The Ti Group: Zr, Hf, Nb, and Ta.- 5.4.5 The Compatible Group: Ni, Co, Cr, V, and Sc.- 5.4.6 The Chalcophile Group: Cu, Zn, and Mo.- 5.4.7 Trace Element Systematics.- 5.5 Isotopes.- 5.5.1 Strontium.- 5.5.2 Lead.- 5.5.3 Neodymium.- 5.5.4 Inert Gases.- 5.5.5 U-Disequilibrium.- 5.5.6 Oxygen.- 5.5.7 Synthesis of Isotope Data.- 5.6 Comparison with Andesites Not at Convergent Plate Boundaries.- 5.7 Geochemical Distinctiveness of Volcanism at Convergent Plate Boundaries.- 5.8 Conclusions: Chemical Diversity of Orogenic Andesites.- 6 Mineralogy and Mineral Stabilities.- 6.1 Plagioclase.- 6.2 Pyroxenes.- 6.3 Amphibole.- 6.4 Olivine.- 6.5 Oxides.- 6.6 Garnet.- 6.7 Other Minerals.- 6.8 Inclusions in Orogenic Andesites.- 6.9 Mineral Stabilities in Andesite Magma.- 6.10 Trace Element Equilibria Between Minerals and Melt.- 6.11 Conclusions.- 7 Spatial and Temporal Variations in the Composition of Orogenic Andesites.- 7.1 Variations in Magma Composition Across Volcanic Arcs.- 7.2 Variations in Magma Composition Along Volcanic Arcs.- 7.3 Effects of Plate Convergence Rate on Magma Composition.- 7.4 Relationships Between Compositions of Orogenic Andesites and Adjacent Oceanic Crust.- 7.5 Changes in the Composition of Orogenic Andesites During Earth History.- 8 The Role of Subducted Ocean Crust in the Genesis of Orogenic Andesites.- 8.1 Characteristics of Subducted Ocean Crust Beneath Volcanic Arcs.- 8.2 Circumstantial Evidence of Slab Recycling in Arc Volcanism.- 8.3 Are Orogenic Andesites Primary Melts of Subducted Ocean Floor Basalt? No.- 8.4 The Sediment Solution.- 8.5 IRS Fluids and Maxwell's Demons.- 8.6 Conclusions.- 9 The Role of the Mantle Wedge.- 9.1 Characteristics of the Mantle Wedge.- 9.2 Circumstantial Evidence that Arc Magmas Originate Within the Mantle Wedge.- 9.3 Are Orogenic Andesites Primary Melts of Only the Mantle Wedge? Rarely.- 9.4 Fluid Mixing, Metasomatism, and Demonology in the Mantle Wedge.- 10 The Role of the Crust.- 10.1 Circumstantial Evidence for Crustal Involvement in Orogenic Andesites.- 10.2 Crustal Anatexis.- 10.3 Crustal Assimilation.- 11 The Role of Basalt Differentiation.- 11.1 General Arguments for and Against Differentiation.- 11.2 Roles of Plagioclase, Pyroxenes, and Olivine.- 11.3 Role of Magnetite and the Plagioclase-Orthopyroxene/Olivine-Augite-Magnetite (POAM) Model.- 11.4 Role of Amphibole.- 11.5 Role of Garnet.- 11.6 Role of Accessory Minerals: Apatite, Chromite, Sulfides, Biotite.- 11.7 Role of Magma Mixing.- 11.8 Role of Other Differentiation Mechanisms.- 11.9 Differentiation Processes Leading to Andesites in Anorogenic Environments.- 12 Conclusions.- 12.1 Andesite Genesis by POAM-Fractionation: the Most Frequent Mechanism.- 12.2 Some Outstanding Problems Requiring Clarification.- 12.3 Origin of Tholeiitic Versus Calcalkaline Andesites.- 12.4 Origin of Across-Arc Geochemical Variations.- 12.5 Epilog.- References.
3,040 citations
TL;DR: This article evaluated subducting sediments on a global basis in order to better define their chemical systematics and to determine both regional and global average compositions, and then used these compositions to assess the importance of sediments to arc volcanism and crust-mantle recycling, and to re-evaluate the chemical composition of the continental crust.
2,973 citations