Short-Timescale Strata Formation on a Canyon-Dominated Margin: Assessing the Link Between Shelf and Slope Systems
Abstract
Prior to recent work, it was commonly thought that sediment did not escape to areas seaward of the shelf break during the present highstand of sea level because of sediment trapping in estuaries and on broad continental shelves. However, recent results (including those from the STRATAFORM Program) have revealed that a significant amount of sediment can accumulate on continental slopes and escape to the deep sea via submarine canyons (e.g., Mullenbach et al., 2004; Puig et al., 2003). These studies reveal the importance of off-shelf sediment exchange during present conditions; however, the factors that control sediment transfer across shelf breaks are not well understood, particularly near canyon heads. The long-term goal of this research is to assess how a bathymetrically complex shelf break (i.e., with many canyons) affects the link between shelf and slope sedimentary systems.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Sep 30, 2004
- Accession Number
- ADA613887
Entities
People
- Beth Mullenbach
Organizations
- Texas A&M University