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The AAPG/Datapages Combined Publications Database

Earth Science Bulletin (WGA)

Abstract


Earth Science Bulletin
Vol. 15 (1982), No. 1. (Annual), Page 148b

Abstract: Shales — Their Sedimentology and Geology

A. Pryor Wayne1

Wyoming Geological Association: 1982 Luncheon Meetings Casper, Wyoming: Abstracts of Papers

Shale and mud form at least 60 percent of the world’s sediments and have been deposited throughout geologic history. They occur in every major depositional basin. They are major source beds for hydrocarbons, hosts for metallic minerals, sources of ceramic materials, cause unstable foundation conditions, and produce soils for our food. Yet the study of shales has lagged far behind that of other sedimentary rocks. However, the following general observations can be made about these important rocks.

More studies have been made of recent muds than of ancient shales. Clay mineralogy, geochemistry, and paleonthology of muds and shales are better understood than their stratigraphy, petrology and sedimentology. Most shales occur in marine sequences and are associated with deltaic depocenters. They are more commonly geosynclinal than cratonic, and are most commonly deposited in deep water as distal turbidites and pelagic muds. Cratonic shales occur as widespread, thin sheets distal from their source land.

Acknowledgments and Associated Footnotes

1 A. Pryor Wayne: Univ. of Cincinnati, A.A.P.G. Distinguished Lecturer

© Wyoming Geological Association, 2015