Luminescent microbanding in speleothems: High-resolution chronology and paleoclimate

Abstract

Research Article| May 01, 1994 Luminescent microbanding in speleothems: High-resolution chronology and paleoclimate Y. Y. Shopov; Y. Y. Shopov 1Department of Geography, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario L8S 4K1, Canada Search for other works by this author on: GSW Google Scholar D. C. Ford; D. C. Ford 1Department of Geography, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario L8S 4K1, Canada Search for other works by this author on: GSW Google Scholar H. P. Schwarcz H. P. Schwarcz 2Department of Geology, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario L8S 4M1, Canada Search for other works by this author on: GSW Google Scholar Geology (1994) 22 (5): 407–410. https://doi.org/10.1130/0091-7613(1994)022<0407:LMISHR>2.3.CO;2 Article history first online: 02 Jun 2017 Cite View This Citation Add to Citation Manager Share Icon Share Facebook Twitter LinkedIn MailTo Tools Icon Tools Get Permissions Search Site Citation Y. Y. Shopov, D. C. Ford, H. P. Schwarcz; Luminescent microbanding in speleothems: High-resolution chronology and paleoclimate. Geology 1994;; 22 (5): 407–410. doi: https://doi.org/10.1130/0091-7613(1994)022<0407:LMISHR>2.3.CO;2 Download citation file: Ris (Zotero) Refmanager EasyBib Bookends Mendeley Papers EndNote RefWorks BibTex toolbar search Search Dropdown Menu toolbar search search input Search input auto suggest filter your search All ContentBy SocietyGeology Search Advanced Search Abstract When illuminated by ultraviolet light, many calcite speleothems (stalagmites, stalactites, flowstones) display luminescence caused by the presence of organic (humic) substances occluded in the calcite. The amplitude of luminescence varies in a banded pattern parallel to growth layering. Through 14C and thermal ionization mass spectrometry uranium-series dating, we show that cyclical oscillations in the luminescence have periodicities ranging from a few days to ≥105 yr. A well-defined annual cycle is present in many vadose-zone speleothems and can be used to define the chronology of short-term events. This cycle is probably a response to hydrological events in the recharge to the cave. Longer term oscillations are inferred to be controlled by climate, through its effect on organic activity in the overlying soil. This content is PDF only. Please click on the PDF icon to access. First Page Preview Close Modal You do not have access to this content, please speak to your institutional administrator if you feel you should have access.