Alluvial fan surfaces and an age-related stability for cultural resource preservation: Nevada Test and Training Range, Nellis Air Force Base, Nevada, USA

摘要: Abstract Surface geomorphology studies, measurements of cosmogenic 10 Be concentrations, and satellite imagery analysis are employed to construct a surface stability model for the preservation archeological features in Stonewall Flat, Nevada, USA. Primary fan processes incised channel floods sheet alluvial fans secondary sheetwash, eolian erosion deposition, bioturbation, soil development subsequently modify surfaces. Each process leaves distinctive features, but collectively darkens smooth's with age. Concentrations subsurface samples recently active surfaces have effectively zero ages, whereas concentrations mature pavements ages 35 40 thousand years (ka). age data from other Flat studies indicate that transition primary domination younger than 13 ka, older dominated by processes. Image demonstrates correlation between darkening age, permits estimations undated Results 3 ka unstable sites; 10 ka stable site preservation.