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Bedrock-to-Regolith

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Conceptual models of deep CZ structure and function. (Hynek et al., Figure 10)

Bedrock and Regolith Weathering

Conceptual models of deep CZ structure and function.

Model Category: Conceptual

Image: Conceptual models of deep CZ structure and function. (Hynek et al., Figure 10)


Based on results from SSHCZO and the Luquillo CZO, Brantley and colleagues developed a model of soil formation (from bedrock to weathered regolith to soil) based on 1-dimensional hydrogeochemical interaction. The model describes the weathering of bedrock into regolith under steady-state conditions as a function of solubility and fluid flow velocity. This model identifies the distribution of corestones at the bedrock-regolith interface and describes their erosion rates. Development of 2-D and 3-D formulations of the model is ongoing and will provide a comprehensive picture of regolith formation under steady-state weathering and erosion.

Synthetic model results of the bedrock-to-regolith model (left) show decreasing corestone size with decreasing depth. These results are consistent with findings at Luquillo (middle) and Shale Hills (right). Dashed curves indicate the trend of the largest corestones at the two field sites (from Brantley et al. 2011).

Synthetic model results of the bedrock-to-regolith model (left) show decreasing corestone size with decreasing depth. These results are consistent with findings at Luquillo (middle) and Shale Hills (right). Dashed curves indicate the trend of the largest corestones at the two field sites (from Brantley et al. 2011).


Publications

2011

Investigating the complex interface where bedrock transforms to regolith. Brantley, S. L., Buss, H., Lebedeva, M., Fletcher R.C., Ma L. (2011): Applied Geochemistry. Vol 26. S12-S15.

2009

Approaches to Modeling Weathered Regolith in Thermodynamics and Kinetics of Water-Rock Interaction, EH Oelkers and J Schott, (eds),. Brantley, S.L. and White, A.F. (2009): Reviews in Mineralogy and Geochemistry, v. 70, p. 435-484.

2013

The Architecture of Deep Weathering at Two CZOs: Groundwater, Regolith, and Solutes at Susquehanna Shale Hills and Luquillo Experimental Forest . HYNEK, Scott A., ORLANDO, Joseph J., SULLIVAN, Pamela, and BRANTLEY, Susan L. (2013): GSA Annual Meeting

2014

GPR and Geophysics . Scott Hynek (2014): All-hands Meeting of the Luquillo Critical Zone Observatory, Luquillo, PR.