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Abstract
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Article Information:
Zircon Typology as Indicator of Provenance in Neoproterozoic Sandstones of the Voltaian Basin, Ghana
Chris Anani, Masaaki Tateishi, Daniel Asiedu, David Atta-Petters and Johnson Manu
Corresponding Author: Chris Anani
Submitted: 2011 September, 07
Accepted: 2011 September, 30
Published: 2012 February, 01 |
Abstract:
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An investigation to identify the suitability of zircon crystals as provenance indicators of the relatively
mature sandstones of the Neoproterozoic strata in the Voltaian Basin was conducted. A total of 154 zircon
grains were critically studied, all extracted from 14 sandstones samples; 7 from Lower Voltaian Kwahu-Morago
Group and 7 from the Middle Voltaian Oti-Pendjari Group. Zircon typology analysis indicates anatectic origin
with some contribution of a volcanic material for the Kwahu-Morago Group. Zircons from the Oti-Pendjari
Group, however, showed an evolution in the source-area with three probable main sources identified for the
sediments. These are; (1) zircon sub-population of crustal origin as one of the sources, (2) zircon sub-population
with a strong mantle affinity and towards a more aluminous type. These zircon sub-populations have been
interpreted as coming either from the same calc-alkaline source rock; or that it has its origin in two distinct
sources, one with calc-alkaline and the other one with a subalkaline origin. The zircon typology study here
shows that the Kwahu-Morago Group experienced sediment supply mainly from the Birimian sedimentary
basins with some contribution from the volcanic belts. On the other hand sediments from the Oti-Pendjari
Group were mostly derived from the calc-alkaline rocks of the Pan-African orogen with minor contribution
from the Birimian granitoids. This study clearly showed that zircon typology does not only help establish
provenance study but also adds a considerable degree of sophistication.
Key words: Provenance, sandstone, typology, voltaian basin, zircon, ,
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Cite this Reference:
Chris Anani, Masaaki Tateishi, Daniel Asiedu, David Atta-Petters and Johnson Manu, . Zircon Typology as Indicator of Provenance in Neoproterozoic Sandstones of the Voltaian Basin, Ghana. Research Journal of Environmental and Earth Sciences, (02): 151-161.
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ISSN (Online): 2041-0492
ISSN (Print): 2041-0484 |
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