High-Mg potassic rocks from Taiwan: implications for the genesis of orogenic potassic lavas

Taiwan is an active mountain belt formed by oblique collision between the Luzon arc and the Asian continent. Regardless of the ongoing collision in central and southern Taiwan, a post-collisional extension regime has developed since the Plio–Pleistocene in the northern part of this orogen, and led to generation of the Northern Taiwan Volcanic Zone. Emplaced at 0.2 Ma in the southwest of the Volcanic Zone, lavas from the Tsaolingshan volcano are highly magnesian (MgO≈15 wt.%) and potassic (K₂O≈5 wt.%; K₂O/Na₂O≈1.6–3.0). Whereas these basic rocks (SiO₂≈48 wt.%) have relatively low Al₂O₃≈12 wt.%, total Fe₂O₃≈7.5 wt.% and CaO≈7.2 wt.%, they are extremely enriched in large ion lithophile elements (LILE, e.g. Cs, Rb, Ba, Th and U). The Rb and Cs abundances, >1000 and 120 ppm, respectively, are among the highest known from terrestrial rocks. In addition, these rocks are enriched in light rare earth elements (LREE), depleted in high field strength elements (HFSE), and display a positive Pb spike in the primitive mantle-normalized variation diagram. Their REE distribution patterns mark with slight Eu negative anomalies (Eu/Eu*≈0.90–0.84), and Sr and Nd isotope ratios are uniform (⁸⁷Sr/⁸⁶Sr≈0.70540–0.70551; ¹⁴³Nd/¹⁴⁴Nd≈0.51268–0.51259). Olivine, the major phenocryst phase, shows high Fo contents (90.4±1.8; 1σ deviation), which are in agreement with the whole rock Mg-values (83–80). Spinel inclusions in olivine are characterized by high Cr/Cr+Al ratios (0.94–0.82) and have compositions similar to those from boninites that originate from highly refractory peridotites. Such petrochemical characteristics are comparable to the Group I ultrapotassic rocks defined by Foley et al. [Earth-Sci. Rev. 24 (1987) 81], such as orogenic lamproites from central Italy, Span and Tibet. We therefore suggest that the Tsaolingshan lavas resulted from a phlogopite-bearing harzburgitic source in the lithospheric mantle that underwent a recent metasomatism by the nearby Ryukyu subduction zone processes. The lavas exhibit unique incompatible trace element ratios, with Rb/Cs≈8, Ba/Rb≈1, Ce/Pb≈2, Th/U≈1 and Nb/U≈0.8, which are significantly lower than the continental crust values and those of most mantle-derived magmas. Nonmagmatic enrichment in the mantle source is therefore required. Based on published experimental data, two subduction-related metasomatic components, i.e., slab-released hydrous fluid and subducted sediment, are proposed, and the former is considered to be more pervasive for causing the extraordinary trace element ratios observed. Our observations lend support to the notion that dehydration from subducting slabs at convergent margins, as a continuing process through geologic time, can account for the fractionation of these elemental pairs between the Earth's crust and mantle.     

冈底斯新近纪钾质火山作用:消减沉积物折返的地球化学与Sr-Nd-Pb同位素证据

在冈底斯岩浆岩带的羊八井地区,林子宗火山岩系上部出现小规模的粗面质火山岩.岩石学与地球化学研究表明粗面岩与时空密切相关的大体积安山质-英安质-流纹质火山岩属于不同的火山岩系:碱性钾质系列与钙碱性系列.详细的地球化学研究证明林子宗晚期小体积钾质岩具有独立的岩浆源区,而非早期钙碱性系统低压岩浆过程演化的产物.粗面质熔岩SiO2含量为62.91%～64.63%,具有高K2O(7.52%～8.05%)、Al2O3(16.64%-17.35%)、低TiO2(0.59%～0.68%)与MsO(0.15%～0.77%).钾质熔岩富集LILE与LREE,亏损HFSE,具有高Rb/Sr(1.1～2.3)、Th/La(0.59～0.80)、Th/U(6.3～10.9)和低Ce/Pb(4.1～6.2)与Ba/Th(4.3～14.5)比值,其同位素组成变化范围分别是87Sr/86Sr(I)=0.7068～0.7075、143Nd/144Nd(I)=0.51241～0.51252、206Pb/204Pb=18.87～18.95、207Pb/204Pb=15.63～15.70和208Pb/204Pb=39.24～39.68.粗面岩的地球化学与同位素特征表明冈底斯新近纪钾质火山岩来源于角闪岩相的消减沉积物熔融.因此,羊八井新近纪钾质火山熔岩提供了印度-亚洲大陆碰撞早期消减沉积物折返的证据.     

Geochemistry of granitic rocks from the Hercynian Sardinia-Corsica batholith: Implication for magma genesis

The Sardinia-Corsica batholith was structured in the late stage of the Hercynian orogenesis. The granitoids intrude mainly metamorphic complexes grading from zeolite up to amphibolite facies. The batholith is heterogeneous consisting of complexes with different affinity, chemical composition, age and degree of deformation. The present paper reports major-and trace-element data for selected samples coming only from Sardinian outcrops.

The rocks range from gabbro-diorite to tonalite, monzogranite and leucogranite. The two latter lithologies are the most abundant, gabbrodiorites and tonalites occurring in minor amounts and mainly in northern-central Sardinia. Over 75% of the granitoids contain microgranular enclaves of magmatic origin. The age of the rocks falls in the interval between 307 and 281 Ma. Sr isotope initial ratios are high, ranging between 0.7083 and 0.7107.

REE, Rb, Sr, Ba, Zr, Th, Ta, Hf, Co and Sc abundances were determined on selected samples. All elements follow three types of trends vs. CaO, which is used as differentiation index. Two trends show positive and negative correlations while the third one shows a bell-shaped pattern. LREE have different degrees of enrichment (La = 20−120× ch) and HREE show variable fractionation with prevailing (Tb/Yb)_n<1. The two peraluminous samples have very different geochemical characteristics.

From the geochemical point of view all the rocks coming from the Sardinian segment of the batholith display a typical calc-alkaline chemical character showing the imprint of both “normal and mature” continental arc geodynamic environments.

Geochemical trends suggest some petrogenetic constraints. The complete sequence of differentiation can be neither the product of crystal/liquid fractionation processes starting from a single basic parent magma nor the product of an AFC process. On the contrary, a two-stage model can be proposed. In the first stage a mafic melt of subcrustal origin interacted with monzogranitic magmas derived from 25–35% degree of melting of a crustal biotite amphibolitic source. Such a mixing process acted together with a crystal/liquid fractionation process to give tonalites and granodiorites. In the second stage lesser degrees of melting of the same crustal source could give the late-stage leucogranitic masses.

A possible scenario, able to take into account field and geochemical data, can be suggested for the genesis of this suite and we propose it as a working model for future investigations.     

阿尔泰喀纳斯早泥盆纪钾质富镁英安岩:俯冲沉积物熔体交代

阿尔泰造山带喀纳斯地区出露一套钾质富镁英安岩,锆石U-Pb定年显示其形成于早泥盆世(411±4 Ma)。该套英安岩富SiO_2(64.71～67.77 wt%),MgO(3.28～3.53 wt%)和K_2O(2.12～2.75 wt%),贫Na_2O(1.70～1.85wt%),K_2O/Na_2O比值介于(1.20～1.53),具较高的Al_2O_3(14.12～15.33 wt%)和较低的CaO(1.12～1.28 wt%),ASI指数1.8,显示过铝质钙碱性岩浆系列特征,明显不同于初始的高镁安山质岩浆。样品具有中等的Cr(134×10~(-6)～153×10~(-6))、Co(17.47×10~(-6)～18.65×10~(-6))、Ni(71.64×10~(-6)～80.76×10~(-6))含量,富集大离子亲石元素Rb、K和高场强元素U、Th、Pb及LREE,发育Sr、Ba及TNT(Ta、Nb、Ti)负异常,显示俯冲带岩浆岩地球化学特征。其高的Mg~#(51.71～52.47)和低的ε_(Nd)(t)值(-4.6～-4.2)说明该套火山岩可能来自遭受强烈交代作用的地幔楔部分熔融。样品具有较高的Ba/La、Pb/La比值和较低的Th/Yb、Nb/Y比值,显示地幔交代作用以俯冲沉积物熔体的交代作用为主。以上地球化学特征说明,喀纳斯钾质富镁英安岩可能主要是受俯冲沉积物熔体交代的上覆地幔橄榄岩部分熔融的产物,阿尔泰泥盆纪处于俯冲作用相关的活动大陆边缘构造环境。此外,该套火山岩的形成时代制约了其下覆的哈巴河群沉积上限,显示哈巴河群沉积于早泥盆世之前。     

Crystal-chemistry of clinopyroxenes from potassic and ultrapotassic rocks in central Italy: implications on their genesis

The clinopyroxenes mentioned have been investigated by single crystal X-ray diffraction combined with electron microprobe analysis. The aim of this study was to characterize the crystal-chemical variations of clinopyroxenes in order to delineate the intracrystalline constraints which are characteristic of specific magmatic environments. Clinopyroxenes (cpx) crystallized from peralkaline ultrapotassic melt with kamafugitic and lamproitic affinities are characterized by high Si contents, which are insensitive to variations in silica abundance and silica saturation of the melt. The high Si occupancy in clinopyroxenes from kamafugitic magma is coupled to large M1 (i.e. Mg and Fe²⁺) and M2 (high Ca occupancy) sites, whereas in clinopyroxenes from magmas with lamproitic affinity, high Si content is combined with large M1 but small M2 sites. Clinopyroxenes from Romantype alkaline potassic and ultrapostassic rocks are characterized by an expanded tetrahedron (high ^IVA1 content) and small M1 site which is combined with small M2 polyhedron in clinopyroxenes from the potassic rocks and large M2 site in those from the ultrapotassic rocks.     

Limits of sediment involvement in the genesis of orogenic volcanic rocks

The isotopic composition of Pb and Sr and the abundance of trace elements in oceanic sediments provide several independent mechanisms for determining the limits of oceanic sediment involvement in andesite genesis. These data, particularly the Th/U values and the Sr⁸⁷/Sr⁸⁶ values, indicate that oceanic sediment involvement is probably limited to 2% or less for andesitic magmas in the Cascade Mtns. The isotopic and chemical data on continental sedimentary rocks limit their involvement to 10% or less. The isotopic composition of Pb in all calcic and calc-alkaline or orogenic volcanic rocks however does not depend on crustal materials, and cannot be accounted for by mixing oceanic sediment and oceanic ridge basalt leads in all cases. One is not justified in using the lead growth curve for oceanic sediment as a convenient and arbitrary end member in these mixing model calculations, and therefore the model of Armstrong (1971) does not appear to offer a universal solution. It appears that alkali basalt-like leads may play an important role in the genesis of andesitic rocks.     

Isotopic evidence for multiple contributions to felsic magma chambers: Gouldsboro Granite, Coastal Maine

The Gouldsboro Granite forms part of the Coastal Maine Magmatic Province, a region characterized by granitic plutons that are intimately linked temporally and petrogenetically with abundant co-existing mafic magmas. The pluton is complex and preserves a felsic magma chamber underlain by contemporaneous mafic magmas; the transition between the two now preserved as a zone of chilled mafic sheets and pillows in granite. Mafic components have highly variably isotopic compositions as a result of contamination either at depth or following injection into the magma chamber. Intermediate dikes with identical isotopic compositions to more mafic dikes suggest that closed system fractionation may be occurring in deeper level chambers prior to injection to shallower levels. The granitic portion of the pluton has the highest Nd isotopic composition (ε_Nd = + 3.0) of plutons in the region whereas the mafic lithologies have Nd isotopic compositions (ε_Nd = + 3.5) that are the lowest in the region and similar to the granite and suggestive of prolonged interactions and homogenization of the two components. Sr and Nd isotopic data for felsic enclaves are inconsistent with previously suggested models of diffusional exchange between the contemporaneous mafic magmas and the host granite to explain highly variable alkali contents. The felsic enclaves have relatively low Nd isotopic compositions (ε_Nd = + 2 – + 1) indicative of the involvement of a third, lower ε_Nd melt during granite petrogenesis, perhaps represented by pristine granitic dikes contemporaneous with the nearby Pleasant Bay Layered Intrusion. The dikes at Pleasant Bay and the felsic enclaves at Gouldsboro likely represent remnants of the silicic magmas that originally fed and replenished the overlying granitic magma chambers. The large isotopic (and chemical) contrasts between the enclaves and granitic dikes and granitic magmas may be in part a consequence of extended interactions between the granitic magmas and co-existing mafic magmas by mixing, mingling and diffusion. Alternatively, the granitic magmas may represent an additional crustal source. Using granitic rocks such as these with abundant evidence for interactions with mafic magmas complicate their use in constraining crustal sources and tectonic settings. Fine-grained dike rocks may provide more meaningful information, but must be used with caution as these may also have experienced compositional changes during mafic–felsic interactions.     

Isotopic evidence for genetic relations between acid and alkaline rocks in Italy

Pb isotopic composition and concentrations were determined for whole-rock samples from the Pliocene-Pleistocene, acid, Tuscan Igneous Province, Italy, in order to clarify their relation to the Cenozoic alkaline volcanism of Central Italy. The Pb of the Tuscan rocks is fairly uniform in its isotopic composition, despite variable and high ₈₇Sr/₈₆Sr ratios (0.711–0.725; Barberi et al, 1971).A comparison of the Pb isotopic composition in the Tuscan and the potassic alkaline rocks strongly suggests a continuous mixing relation between both rock series, with partial melts of mantle material and argillaceous sedimentary rocks as likely end-members. Such an interrelation could also provide a simple explanation for the range in the Sr isotopic ratio within the Tuscan rocks. The favoured model envisages a similar history for both rock-series; it is suggested that their main petrographic differences result from a lower portion of mantle-derived material in the parental material for the Tuscan rocks, and from the mineral phases present in the residue during partial melting of the source region.     

Isotopic composition of strontium and neodymium in potassic rocks of the Little Murun complex, Aldan Shield, Siberia

This paper presents the first data on the isotopic composition of Nd and Sr in ultrapotassic rocks of the Little Murun complex, Aldan Shield, Siberia. The samples analysed include a Sr---Ba-carbonatite and rocks belonging to the biotite pyroxenite-shonkinite series. The latter are representative of rocks termed “lamproites” by previous investigators of the complex. The rocks have isotopic compositions that indicate derivation from ancient sources that have higher Rb/Sr and lower Sm/Nd ratios than those of bulk Earth. The samples define an array on a Sr---Nd correlation diagram, suggesting that the isotopic composition of Sr and Nd in the rocks is a mixture of two components: a dominant one derived from an ancient lithospheric mantle source that has been isolated from convecting mantle, and a minor component of asthenospheric origin. We do not consider that any of the samples analysed are lamproites, although our isotopic data suggest that conditions in the lithospheric mantle in this region are suitable for the generation of lamproites. The potassic rocks from the Aldan shield have isotopic compositions that are similar to those of potassic rocks in the Wyoming craton. It is proposed that the geochemical evolution of the two shields was broadly similar.     

Petrogenesis of the highly potassic 1.42 Ga Barrel Spring pluton,southeastern California,with implications for mid-Proterozoic magma genesis in the southwestern USA

Syenites from the Barrel Spring pluton were emplaced in the Early Proterozoic Mojave crustal provine of southeastern California at 1.42 Ga. All rocks, even the most mafic, are highly enriched in incompatible elements (e.g. K₂O 4–12 wt%, Rb 170–370 ppm, Th 12–120 ppm, La 350–1500xchondrite, La/Yb_n 35–100). Elemental compositions require an incompatible element-rich but mafic (or ultramafic) source. Trace element models establish two plausible sources for Barrel Spring magmas: (1) LREE enriched garnet websterite with accessory apatite±rutile (enriched lithospheric mantle), and (2) garnet amphibolite or garnet-hornblende granulite with enriched alkali basalt composition, also with accessory apatite±rutile (mafic lower crust). Nd and Pb isotopic ratios do not distinguish a crust vs mantle source, but eliminate local Mojave province crust as the principal one, and indicate that generation of the enriched source occurred several hundred million years before emplacement of the Barrel Spring pluton. 1.40–1.44 Ga potassic granites are common in southeastern California, suggesting a genetic link between the Barrel Spring pluton and the granites; however, although the same thermal regime was probably responsible for producing both the granitic and syentic magmas, elemental and isotopic compositions preclude a close relationship. Isotopic similarity of the Barrel Spring pluton to 1.40–1.44 Ga granites emplaced in the Central Arizona crustal province to the east may imply that a common component was present in the lithosphere of these generally distinct regions.     

Role of fluid in the genesis of carbonatites and alkaline rocks: Geochemical evidence

In most alkaline-ultrabasic-carbonatite ring complexes, the distribution of trace elements in the successive derivatives of mantle magmas is usually controlled by the Rayleigh equation of fractional crystallization in accordance with their partition coefficients, whereas, that of late derivatives, nepheline syenites and carbonatites, is usually consistent with trends characteristic of silicate-carbonate liquid immiscibility. In contrast to the carbonatites of ring complexes, carbonatites from deep-seated linear zones have no genetic relation with alkaline-ultrabasic magmatism, and the associated alkaline rocks are represented only by the nepheline syenite eutectic association. The geochemical study of magmatic rocks from the Vishnevye Gory nepheline syenite-carbonatite complex (Urals), which is assigned to the association of deep-seated linear zones, showed that neither differentiation of a parental melt nor liquid immiscibility could produce the observed trace element distribution (Sr, Rb, REE, and Nb) in miaskites and carbonatites. Judging from the available fragmentary experimental data, the distribution patterns can be regarded as possible indicators of element fractionation between alkaline carbonate fluid and alkaline melt. Such trace element distribution is presumably controlled by a fluid-melt interaction; it was also observed in carbonatites and alkaline rocks of some ring complexes, and its scarcity can be explained by the lower density of aqueous fluid released from magma at shallower depths.     

Isotopic characteristics of river sediments on the Tibetan Plateau

We systematically collected 40 modern clastic sediment samples from rivers in different tectonic units of the Tibetan Plateau and measured their Sr–Nd isotopic compositions. The isotopic characteristics provide insight into the controversial paleo-tectonic affinity of terranes of the Tibetan Plateau and the provenance of Songpan–Ganzi flysch complex. The Qilian Terrane and Himalaya Terrane have more negative ε_Nd(0) values (from ? 14.3 to ? 11.8 and from ? 20.64 to ? 13.26, respectively) and high ⁸⁷Sr/⁸⁶Sr values (from 0.719674 to 0.738818 and from 0.721020 to 0.824959, respectively), reflecting old and mature continental crust origin of these two terranes. The southern Lhasa Terrane is more radiogenic in ε_Nd(0) values (from ? 8.82 to ? 3.8) and low in ⁸⁷Sr/⁸⁶Sr values (from 0.711504 to 0.719489), implying the combined impact of the Neo-Tethys mantle and Himalaya old continental crust. Sr–Nd isotopic compositions of the Qilian Terrane are similar to those in the Yangtze Craton, indicating that the Qilian Terrane was probably separated from the Yangtze Craton. Sr–Nd isotopic characteristics of the Songpan–Ganzi Terrane are similar to the Yangtze Craton and are remarkably different to those in the North China Craton, eastern Kunlun–Qaidam and the central Qiangtang metamorphic belt, implying that the widely distributed flysch complex of the Songpan–Ganzi Terrane was sourced from the Yangtze Craton.     

藏东类乌齐地区古近纪钾质火山岩的发现及特征

古近纪业阿供组火山岩分布于西藏东部类乌齐镇业阿供村,LA-ICP-MS锆石U-Pb年龄为30.54±0.8Ma,岩石具有高碱、低Ti的特征,在SiO2-K2O图解中位于钾质岩区,属于碱性钾质岩。岩石地球化学特征表明,业阿供组钾质火山岩很可能源于古俯冲流体交代的富集地幔源区经过部分熔融作用,形成于碰撞后的板内构造环境。     

Sr,Nd,Pb Isotope Geochemistry and Magma Evolution of the Potassic Volcanic Rocks,Wudalianchi,Northeast China

Wudalianchi volcanic rocks are the most typical Cenozoic potassic volcanic rocks in easten China.Compositional comparisons between whole rocks and glasses of various occurrences indicate that the magma tends to become rich in silica and alkalis as a result of crystal differentiation in the course of evolu-tion.They are unique in isotopic composition with more radiogenic Sr but less radiogenic Pb.^87Sr/^86Sr is higher and ^143Nd/^144Nd is lower than the undifferentiated global values.In comparison to continental pot-ash volcanic rocks,Pb isotopes are apparently lower.These various threads of evidence indicate that the rocks were derived from a primary enriched mantle which had not been subjected to reworking and shows no sign of incorporation of crustal material.The correlation between Pb and Sr suggests the regional heterogeneity in the upper mantle in terms of chemical composition.     

Isotopic evidence for postsedimentary transformation of rocks of the Lower Cambrian Angara Formation in the Irkutsk Amphitheater

The section of the Angara Formation (upper portion of Lower Cambrian) is composed of a complex combination of dolomites, anhydrites, marlstones, and salinastones. The occurrence of solution breccia, various types of metasomatism, and other indications testify to the substantial postsedimentary reworking of these rocks. Sulfate reduction, one of the most important processes of reworking, is clearly expressed in the sulfur isotopic composition. The ⁸⁷Sr/⁸⁶Sr ratio in carbonate and sulfate materials is more stable owing to the relatively high Sr content in these rocks. Nevertheless, most sulfate and carbonate rocks are contaminated with the radiogenic Sr. The carbon isotope ratio in carbonates is close to the “normal” value despite the evaporitic character of sedimentation basins and the possible participation of organic carbon, which is a product of the oxidation of hydrocarbons by sulfates, in the transformation of carbonates. The Rb-Sr analysis of the clayey component of marlstones and the K-Ar analysis of mudstones from the lower portion of the Lower Cambrian-Vendian section indicate that the rocks were mainly transformed during a time span corresponding to the Caledonian folding dramatically manifested at the platform margin.     

Mineralogical evidence for the derivation of metaluminous,potassic rocks from peralkaline precursors: The Cordon Syenite Complex (Philippines)

Summary Rocks from the Cordon Syenite Complex, located in the Philippine island arc, correspond to miaskitic (metaluminous) potassic lavas from the Roman Region and the Indonesian arc in terms of bulk rock chemistry. However, the mineral chemistry indicates a complex history of multiple equilibrations with liquids of different nature. T-site (Si + Al) occupancy in some clinopyroxenes and Ca contents of alkali feldspar phenocrysts indicate that these phases crystallized under the temperature-pressure subvolcanic regime from host liquids with progressively decreasing (Na + K)/Al ratio. In contrast to current views on the genesis of potassic rocks, it is suggested that differentiated leucite tephrite suites may be derived from peralkaline liquids by alkali loss. Magmas with affinities to lamproites may occur in the Philippine island arc, but a direct genetic relationship between subduction and alkaline/peralkaline magmatism remains questionable.

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Mineralogische Hinweise auf die Entstehung subalkalischer, K-reicher gesteine aus, peralkalischen Vorläufern: Der Syenit Komplex von Cordon (Philippinen)

Zusammenfassung Die Magmatite des im philippinischen Inselbogen gelegenen Syenitkomplexes von Cordon entsprechen in ihrem Gesamtgesteinschemismus den miaskitischen, K-reichen Vul kaniten der Romanischen Provinz und des indonesischen Inselbogens. Die chemische Zusammensetzung einzelner Mineralphasen deutet auf eine komplexere Genese unter Beteiligung von Magmen unterschiedlicher Alkalinität hin. Die Variation in der Besetzung der T-Position (Si + Al) in Klinopyroxenen und der Ca-Gehalte in Alkalifeldspäten wird dahingehend interpretiert, daß diese Phasen unter subvulkanischen Bedingungen aus Schmelzen mit abnehmenden (Na + K)/Al-Verhältnissen kristallisierten. Im Gegensatz zu gängigen Auffassungen wird daher angenommen, daß differenzierte Leucit-Tephrite aus mild-peralkalischen Magman hervorgehen können. Obwohl die K-reichen Magmatite des Syenitkomplexes von Cordon in einem Inselbogen gebildet wurden, ist ein direkter Zusammenhang mit Anreicherungsvorgängen im Bereich der Subduktionszone fraglich.

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Paper presented at the General Assembly of the International Association of Volcanology and Chemistry of the Earth Interior, Santa Fe, New Mexico, 1989.

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With 6 Figures     

Textural characteristics and genesis of the aeolian sediments in the Kuwaiti desert

Several types of aeolian deposits have been recognized in Kuwait: (a) smooth sand sheets that resemble desert floor sand, (b) immobile sands that include rugged vegetated sand sheets and wadi fill deposits, and (c) mobile sands that form active sand sheets and sand dunes. Simple size frequency curves illustrate the genetic relationship between the various aeolian sediment types. The four size parameters, namely, mean size, sorting, skewness and kurtosis, were calculated. Scatter plot diagrams of sorting versus mean size and sorting versus kurtosis are effective in differentiating smooth sand sheet deposits from dune sands. Active sand sheet deposits can also be recognized because they are usually located between the two end members–smooth sand sheets and dune sands. Size parameters change with location regardless of their types. Coarsening and positive skewness usually increase downwind. Mineralogical and textural characteristics of the aeolian deposits in Kuwait revealed that they are mostly derived from the lower Mesopotamian muddy flood plain deposits, the sand fraction of the Al-Dibdibba gravelly deposits and the disintegrated material from calcretic and gypcretic duricrusts. Distribution of depositional and deflational areas indicates that the northern desert of Kuwait is characterized by a positive sand budget, whereas the southern desert has a negative sand budget.     

Isotopic evidence for the origin of Cenozoic volcanic rocks in the Pinacate volcanic field, northwestern Mexico

Six volcanic rocks, reconnaissance samples representing most of the temporal and compositional variation in the Pinacate volcanic field of Sonora and Arizona, are characterized for major element and Nd---Sr isotopic compositions. The samples consist of basanite through trachyte of an early shield volcano, and alkali basalts and a tholeiite from later craters and cinder cones. With the exception of the trachyte sample, which has increased ⁸⁷Sr/⁸⁶Sr due to crustal effects, all ⁸⁷Sr/⁸⁶Sr values fall between 0.70312 and 0.70342, while ε_Nd values are all between + 5.0 and + 5.7. Clinopyroxene in a rare spinel-lherzolite nodule derived from the uppermost mantle beneath the field has ⁸⁷Sr/⁸⁶Sr of 0.70320 but ε_Nd of + 8.8, three ε_Nd units higher than the volcanic rocks. Both the volcanic rocks and the nodule record the presence of asthenospheric, rather than enriched lithospheric mantle beneath Pinacate. This is consistent with one or both of (a) proximity of Pinacate to the Gulf of California spreading center and (b) presence of similar asthenospheric mantle signatures in volcanic rocks over a wide contiguous area of the southwestern USA. We consider the comparison to other southwestern USA magma sources as the more relevant alternative, although a definite conclusion is not possible at this stage.     

宝坛地区透闪石化镁铁质岩石成因的地质地球化学证据

宝坛地区呈岩脉状或岩席状侵入于四堡群变质地层之中的透闪石化镁铁质岩石包括堆积的超镁铁质岩和分异的闪长岩,其岩石类型为透闪石化辉石岩、辉橄岵、辉长岵、辉绿岵及闪长岵等。该镁铁质－闪长质岩石以富集轻稀土和大离子新石元素、亏损高场强元素（Ｎｂ、Ｔａ）为特征;除堆积成因的超镁铁质岩石外,透闪石化镁铁质岩石及其分异的闪长岵的ＭｇＯ为４．４５％￣７．９６％,是镁铁质岩浆经结晶分异（辉石、橄榄石）作用的产物。     

燕辽地区中生代火山岩岩石地球化学特征及成因

本文从Sr-Nd—Pb、U—Pb同位素及岩石化学、稀土元素地球化学方面讨论了燕辽地区中生代火山岩的年代学特点、成因及形成的构造环境。研究表明，本区中生代火山岩的形成时代主要为中侏罗世、晚侏罗世、早白垩世和晚白垩世4期；本区火山岩浆可划分为钙碱性岩浆系列和亚碱性岩浆系列，火山岩浆源于富集型地幔；构造环境属大陆裂陷盆地。