Mineralogy and geochemistry of the sediments of Qaa' Abu Qardi–NE Jordan

Abstract EN

Through the present study of Qaa' Abu Qardi-NE Jordan, the type and distribution of sediments was determined horizontally and vertically depending on the environmental conditions and the type of rocks surrounding the area.

A number of surface and subsurface samples were studied miner logically and chemically.

Quantitative and qualitative distribution of the different sizes is related to weathering and environmental factors during geological time and geomorphological features and to the types of rocks and deposits surrounding the Qaa' area.

Silt content ranges between 40-90% and mostly increases with depth.

The sediments are loam salty clay to loam salty type.

The sediments of Qaa' Abu Qardi are composed of calcite, quartz, plagioclase, clay minerals (kaolinite, muscovite, elite and montmorillonite), dolomite and gypsum.

Calcite and dolomite are formed during many chemical and physical processes.

Quartz, plagioclase and clay minerals are transported as classic material from the surrounding area of the Qaa' as a result of weathering processes of sediments and basaltic rocks.

Gypsum is deposited as a result of increasing evaporation rates during some hotter seasons in that area.

The concentration of some elements may be increased as a result of its adsorption by clay minerals.

The concentration of iron and potassium increases because of the presence of iolite.

Potassium also increases due to the presence of some clay minerals.

The concentration of iron and magnesium may increase as a result of the chemical and physical weathering processes of the basaltic rocks in the area.

The high SiO2 content is a result of the presence of clay minerals and may be some quartz particles.

All of these concentrations of these elements and the other elements are closely related to the climatic conditions and weathering processes common in the basin (Qaa') and the mix up with surrounding area in general.