Distributary-Front Deposits Interpreted From Dipmeter Patterns: ABSTRACT

ABSTRACT Continuing studies of high resolution dipmeter data suggest correlation between 3 types of dipmeter patterns and 3 different clastic depositional environments. The first environment lies between the beach and seaward edge of the continental shelf. The second environment lies between the seaward edge of the continental shelf and abyssal zone. The third environment is near active deltas where distributary-front sands tend to be deposited in one of three general shapes: elongate, crescent, or fan. Distributary-front deposits in an active delta environment exhibit mainly “current patterns” on a high resolution dipmeter plot rather than structural dips. These “current patterns” result from the dip of foreset beds and make a characteristic dip pattern that can be identified readily. The direction of dip of these “current patterns” defines the direction of transport, and the magnitude of the dip patterns indicates the probable shape of the sand body.