Calculating Earth–Moon system parameters from sub-yearly tidal deposit records: An example from the carboniferous tradewater formation

摘要: Abstract The secular evolution of the Earth–Moon system remains poorly constrained, largely because there are few continuous tidal rhythmite or foreset bundle sequences that preserve deposition over more than several neap–spring cycles. Deposits recording less one year do not facilitate direct calculation past lunar distance directly from Kepler's Laws, but may prove necessary to reconstruct orbital they far common longer records. A method is demonstrated make use shorter deposit by utilizing conservation angular momentum between Earth and Moon estimating solar component deposition, while assuming a constant moment inertia for since Proterozoic. precision accuracy spectral estimates obtained short records considered, as limitations subsequent calculations parameters. Late Carboniferous Abbott sandstone Tradewater Formation in Illinois Basin preserves just 6 apparently cycles its semidiurnal deposits. quality these data, assessed via sedimentological evidence statistical time series properties, produces likely within at least ± 5% actual underlying periodicity (90% accuracy). To test usefulness such records, we possible scenarios 90% 95% accuracy. At accuracy, error bounds on parameter become rather large render individual data sets be limited use. very general inferences about made. Calculated mean 315 Ma 3.798 × 10 8  m with − 0.086 × 10 + 0.046 × 10  m. We conclude cyclic deposits offer resolution estimates. Utilizing multiple sub-yearly similar age ensemble if further investigations changes parameters proceed.