Accession Number:

ADA455997

Title:

Origins of Stratal Surfaces in Channel Fills on the New Jersey Continental Shelf

Descriptive Note:

Final rept. Oct 2003-Sep 2005

Corporate Author:

DELAWARE UNIV LEWES COLL OF MARINE STUDIES

Personal Author(s):

• Sommerfield, Christopher K.

Report Date:

2006-11-11

Pagination or Media Count:

7.0

Abstract:

The goal of this project was to advance an understanding of acoustic anomalies created by sub-seafloor paleochannels by investigating the geologic properties of channel-rich strata on the New Jersey continental shelf. Specific objectives were as follows I perform a synthesis of chirp seismic stratigraphy and physical properties measurements of AHC-800 drill cores recovered for ONRs Geoclutter program in 2002 and 2 interpret channel sedimentary units with regard to mechanisms of formation and depositional environments. Three types of seismic reflectors consistent with the following stratal features were observed I depositional surfaces 2 erosional surfaces and 3 diagenetic surfaces. Results indicate that the origin and physical properties of these surfaces are characteristic of siliciclastic shelves in general, but that the particular depositional history of the New Jersey shelf is such that all three types occur within a single, relatively short sediment column. Depositional and erosional surfaces were apparent in high-resolution seismic reflection profiles, whereas diagenetic surfaces displayed an indistinct acoustic signature.

Descriptors:

• *CONTINENTAL SHELVES
• *STRATIGRAPHY
• *CHANNELS
• MARINE GEOLOGY
• SEDIMENTATION
• ACOUSTIC PROPERTIES
• NEW JERSEY
• GEOMORPHOLOGY
• ATLANTIC OCEAN

Subject Categories:

• Physical and Dynamic Oceanography

Distribution Statement:

APPROVED FOR PUBLIC RELEASE