Earth: An Introduction to Physical Geology (12th Edition)

Published by Pearson
ISBN 10: 0134074254
ISBN 13: 978-0-13407-425-2

Chapter 7 - Section 7.7 - Sedimentary Rocks Represent Past Environments - Eye on Earth 7.3 - Page 232: 1

Answer

If you were to sample the sediments at points A and B, point A would likely have the coarser particles. In the context of sedimentary deposits, coarser particles typically settle out and deposit closer to their source due to their larger size and weight. As sediments are transported by water or wind, the finer particles are carried farther away, while the coarser particles settle out more quickly. In the image, point A is closer to the source of the sediment (represented by the mountains), whereas point B is farther away, near the shoreline. This suggests that the sediments at point A are likely to be coarser compared to those at point B. At point A, the sediments have less time and distance to be sorted and transported, so larger and coarser particles will tend to dominate the deposit. At point B, on the other hand, the sediments have been transported over a longer distance and are more likely to be composed of finer particles. As a result, if you were to sample the sediments at points A and B, you would expect point A to have a higher proportion of coarser particles, while point B would have a higher proportion of finer particles.

Work Step by Step

If you were to sample the sediments at points A and B, point A would likely have the coarser particles. In the context of sedimentary deposits, coarser particles typically settle out and deposit closer to their source due to their larger size and weight. As sediments are transported by water or wind, the finer particles are carried farther away, while the coarser particles settle out more quickly. In the image, point A is closer to the source of the sediment (represented by the mountains), whereas point B is farther away, near the shoreline. This suggests that the sediments at point A are likely to be coarser compared to those at point B. At point A, the sediments have less time and distance to be sorted and transported, so larger and coarser particles will tend to dominate the deposit. At point B, on the other hand, the sediments have been transported over a longer distance and are more likely to be composed of finer particles. As a result, if you were to sample the sediments at points A and B, you would expect point A to have a higher proportion of coarser particles, while point B would have a higher proportion of finer particles.
Update this answer!

You can help us out by revising, improving and updating this answer.

Update this answer

After you claim an answer you’ll have 24 hours to send in a draft. An editor will review the submission and either publish your submission or provide feedback.