Question

Which of the following is an example of a transitional sedimentary environment, i.e. one that exists near an ocean coast?

1) meandering stream
2) lake
3) desert
4) estuary
5) abyssal plain

Answer 1

An estuary, a coastal area where freshwater and saltwater mix, is an example of a transitional sedimentary environment near an ocean coast.

Step-by-step explanation:

The transitional sedimentary environment exists between continental and marine environments, typically including coastal and tidal areas. From the given options, the example of a transitional environment is an estuary, which is a coastal area where freshwater from rivers and streams mixes with the saltwater from the ocean. This environment is known for its variable salinity and is a key location for sediment deposition from both marine and terrestrial sources.

Estuaries are often rich in nutrients and serve as important habitats for various species, leading to the potential for high levels of fossil preservation. They can also exhibit distinct layering patterns and may contain sandstone or mudstone enriched with marine fossils such as oysters, as indicated by the white spots which are oyster shells in Figure 5.29.

Other transitional environments may include beaches, dunes, and marshes which are influenced by proximity to the ocean and are characterized by their respective sedimentary facies and depositional features.