matrix-supported conglomerate
Quick Summary
A matrix-supported conglomerate, also known as a diamictite, is a sedimentary rock composed of coarse fragments (granules, pebbles, cobbles, or boulders) embedded within a finer-grained matrix. This matrix makes up at least 15 percent, and sometimes as much as 80 percent, of the rock. The coarse clasts appear to "float" within this finer material.1
These conglomerates are not formed by typical water currents. Instead, they can originate from processes like submarine landslides, slumping, or dense, gravity-driven turbidity flows. When related to glacial ice, they are called till or tillite, characterized by poorly sorted, angular clasts within a clay matrix. Other types, like laminated pebbly mudstones, contain scattered coarse clasts within delicately laminated mudrocks, suggesting ice-rafted dropstones.1
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conglomerate…produces poorly sorted conglomerates or diamictites (larger nonsorted conglomerates).
Read More…produces poorly sorted conglomerates or diamictites (larger nonsorted conglomerates).
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sedimentary rockMatrix-supported conglomeratesMatrix-supported conglomerates, also called diamictites, exhibit a disrupted, matrix-supported fabric; they contain 15 percent or more (sometimes as much as 80 percent) sand-size and finer clastic matrix. The coarse detrital clasts “float” in a finer-grained detrital matrix. They actually are mudrocks in which…
Read MoreMatrix-supported conglomerates, also called diamictites, exhibit a disrupted, matrix-supported fabric; they contain 15 percent or more (sometimes as much as 80 percent) sand-size and finer clastic matrix. The coarse detrital clasts “float” in a finer-grained detrital matrix. They actually are mudrocks in which…
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