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Chapter 9: Problem 3

What is flysch and where does it form?

Short Answer

Expert verified
Flysch is a sequence of sedimentary rocks composed mainly of alternating layers of sandstone, siltstone, mudstone, and shale, typically formed in deep-sea environments associated with orogenic (mountain-forming) events. The formation of flysch begins with tectonic forces causing the deformation of the earth's crust, leading to the formation of a deep-sea trench adjacent to the orogenic belt where sediments accumulate over millions of years. Flysch deposits can be found in regions such as the Swiss and Italian Alps, the Carpathian Mountains of Eastern Europe, and the Pyrenees of Spain and France.

Step by step solution

01

Definition of Flysch

Flysch is a term used in geology to describe a sequence of sedimentary rocks composed mainly of alternating layers of sandstone, siltstone, mudstone, and shale. These sequences are typically formed in deep-sea environments in association with orogenic (mountain-forming) events.
02

Formation of Flysch

The formation of flysch begins when tectonic forces cause the edge of a continent to collide with another landmass, such as the collision between two tectonic plates. This results in the deformation of the earth's crust and the formation of a deep sea basin (also known as a trench) adjacent to the orogenic belt. The process of sedimentation into the basin is influenced by the activity in the nearby orogenic belt, resulting in deposition of sediments that eventually form the flysch.
03

Environment Where Flysch Forms

Flysch typically forms in deep sea environments adjacent to orogenic belts, which are characterized by intense tectonic activity and mountain-building processes. These environments can be found near subduction zones, where one tectonic plate is being forced beneath another. When the subducted plate goes under the neighboring plate, it creates a deep-sea trench where sediments accumulate over millions of years, eventually forming the flysch sequence. Examples of flysch deposits can be found in the Swiss and Italian Alps, the Carpathian Mountains of Eastern Europe, and the Pyrenees of Spain and France.

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Most popular questions from this chapter

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