Stratigraphic Modeling of Sedimentary Basins

D. T. Lawrence, M. Doyle, S. Snelson, W. T. Horsfield

A new deterministic computer program has been developed which simulates the evolution of basin stratigraphy on geologic time scales. The stratigraphy of basins reflects the subtle interaction between two basic groups of processes: those controlling the introduction and removal of sediments. In the program the primary space-controlling mechanisms are eustasy, tectonic subsidence, sediment compaction, and the isostatic response to sediment and water loads. The depositional surface at a given time is modeled as a function of rate of sediment introduction, rate of sediment dispersal, erosion, and slope stability. The nonmarine profile may aggrade or be eroded, with material eroded from the nonmarine portion of the basin added to the marine sediment fill. The program may be us d (1) to simulate clastic, carbonate, and mixed carbonate/clastic basin fills in consecutive time slices, (2) to model the stratigraphic response to eustatic and tectonic events, and (3) to evaluate independently derived sea level curves.

A movie will be shown illustrating the stratigraphic evolution of a typical passive margin transect in response to changes in the rates of subsidence, sea level rise and fall, and sedimentation.

AAPG Search and Discovery Article #91038©1987 AAPG Annual Convention, Los Angeles, California, June 7-10, 1987.