Co-Authors:
Fine, P.
Singer, M.J.
Verosub, K.L.
Tenpas, J.
Abstract:
The magnetic susceptibility of 69 loess and paleosol samples were studied. Magnetic and chemical data that support the in situ formation of ferrimagnetic material during periods of pedogensis are presented. An inherited ferrimagnetic component, which is predominantly silt-sized magnetite, is evenly distributed throughout the loess column. A second ferrimagnetic component occurs predominantly in the clay (<2-μm) fraction. It is assumed this material is a newly formed maghemite that has accumulated in the paleosols as a result of pedogenesis. The ferrimagnetic content, ferrimagnetic minerals, and particle-size distribution of the ferrimagnetic phase in the paleosols are all related to the extent of pedogenesis in the loess column. -from Authors