Dunham Classification for Carbonate Rocks

Questions and Answers

What is Mudstone?

Mud supported, contains less than 10% grains

What defines a Wackestone?

Mud supported, contains more than 10% grains

What is the composition of Packstone?

Grain supported, contains some mud

What characterizes a Grainstone?

Lacks mud and is grain supported Signup and view all the answers

What is Floatstone?

Matrix-supported, >10% grains >2mm Signup and view all the answers

What does Rudstone refer to?

Carbonate that is clast supported with >2mm sized components Signup and view all the answers

Define Bafflestone.

Supported by organisms which act as baffles, a type of boundstone Signup and view all the answers

What is Bindstone?

Supported by organisms which encrust and bind Signup and view all the answers

What characterizes Framestone?

Supported by organisms which build a rigid framework Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Dunham Classification for Carbonate Rocks

Mudstone: Characterized as mud-supported with less than 10% grains; often forms in low-energy environments.
Wackestone: A mud-supported rock containing more than 10% grains; typically indicates moderate energy conditions during deposition.
Packstone: Grain-supported, meaning it contains some mud, often found in environments where grain abundance is significant.
Grainstone: Completely lacks mud and is fully grain-supported; suggests high-energy environments conducive to grain accumulation.
Floatstone: Matrix-supported with greater than 10% grains sized over 2mm; indicative of a type of sedimentary debris.
Rudstone: Clast-supported carbonate rock with components larger than 2mm; typically formed from larger fragments rather than fine sediment.
Bafflestone: Supported by organisms acting as baffles; a subtype of boundstone where biological interference influences sediment deposit patterns.
Bindstone: Characterized by organisms that encrust and bind materials together, creating a cohesive structure within the rock.
Framestone: Supported by organisms that construct a rigid framework, contributing to the stability and structure of the carbonate rock.

Description

Test your knowledge on the Dunham classification system for carbonate rocks with these flashcards. Each card provides a definition and helps you distinguish between various types of carbonate rock based on their composition. Perfect for students and professionals in geology and earth sciences!