Coarse-grained and fine-grained turbidite systems as end member models: applicability and dangers

Submarine fan/turbidite systems can have any net-to-gross percentage. Prior to developing a model that best represents the deposits under investigatio n the earth scientist should have an adequate understanding of the major ex ternal parameters that influence the transport and deposition of sediment. Tectonics influence the sediment source area and its overall distance to th e shoreline, shelf width and basin morphology. The sand/clay ratio and size range dictate how far sediment can be transported. Climate influences eros ion, transport and diagenesis. Relative sea-level fluctuations impact the t ransport from coast to basin. Using those parameters and two end-members-co arse-grained and fine-grained-an applicable model can be developed that bes t characterizes the fan under consideration. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.