Inorganic and organic geochemical fingerprinting of sediment sources and ocean circulation on a complex continental margin (São Paulo Bight, Brazil)

摘要: Abstract. In this study, we use inorganic (metal) and organic (bulk molecular) markers in sediment samples of the south-eastern Brazilian margin to investigate response geochemical fingerprints complex hydrodynamic processes present area. Results indicate potential export terrigenous siliciclastic constituents upper slope, even an area with limited fluvial supply. Metal contents especially ln(Ti ∕ Al) ln(Fe ∕ K) ratios make it possible recognise extension shelf sediments toward slope. Potassium, here expressed as ln(K ∕ Sc) ln(K ∕ Al) used proxies illite–kaolinite variations, proved be important parameter, because allowed us decipher imprint northward flow Intermediate Western Boundary Current (IWBC) comparison southward flows Brazil (BC) Deep (DWBC). Using matter analyses, were able evaluate extent terrestrial contributions outer without presence significant input. addition, molecular signify a slight increase input C4-derived plants slope sediments, transported from distant areas by main alongshore boundary currents, indicating that fraction deposited on has distinct origin when compared sediments.