Pelitic rocks from the molasse formation of the Southern Ural segment of the Uralian foredeep: Lithogeochemistry,provenance composition,and paleotectonic reconstructions

In this paper, we consider the lithogeochemical characteristics of pelitic rocks from the molasses (Late Permian) of the Southern Ural segment of the Uralian foredeep. The examination of mudstones showed that they contain high and variable amounts of secondary carbonate minerals and, consequently, high and variable CO₂, which complicates the use of traditional lithochemical diagrams for their classification and genetic reconstructions. On the other hand, the lithogeochemical characteristics of the pelites (as well as psammites) provided evidence on the compositions of provenances in paleocatchments. High Cr and Ni contents indicate the presence of ultrabasic rocks in the provenances, and the distribution of Cr/Ni values suggests insignificant chemical homogenization of aluminosilicate fine-grained clastic materials and, consequently, short transport distances. The dominant first-cycle nature of the clay rocks is indicated by the relations of major oxides and various lithochemical indexes. The heterogeneous and complex composition of the end-Permian provenance is supported by the covariation diagrams of indicator trace element ratios.