Abstract
Straub et al. (2009) suggest a metric that allows the quantitative detection of compensational stacking in channelized deposits based on a model whereby the standard deviation of channelized deposit sedimentation rate obeys a power-law function within a given measurement time window. Here, we outline this Straub method and use it to analyze channel deposits stacked within ancient rocks exposed in terrestrial outcrops. A power-law exponent, termed the compensation index κ, can be an indicator of the degree of compensational stacking, where κ = 1.0 for perfect compensational stacking, κ = 0.5 for random stacking, and κ = 0 for anti-compensational stacking. The κ values estimated from stratigraphic cross-sections across submarine-fan successions of the lower Kiyosumi Formation of central Japan can account for the stacking patterns of the channel deposits, and indicate that a combination of the Straub method with the examination of stratigraphic cross-sections allows for an improved understanding of the compensational stacking of channel deposits.
