The application of heavy mineral analysis to palaeogeographic research: a case study of the 3rd Member of Ziniquanzi Formation in the central southern margin of Junggar Basin

Abstract：Based on an analysis of 166 heavy mineral samples from the 3rd Member of Ziniquanzi Formation (E1-2z3) in the central southern margin of the Junggar Basin and taking into account such factors as regional structure, climate and sediment characteristics, the authors have reached the following conclusions: the palaeogeographic conditions for the deposition of the 3rd Member of Ziniquanzi Formation were dry, with the development of multi-channel and intermittent braided rivers in the same direction characterized by shallowness, multiple sources and gentle slopes. A number of parallel rivers were developed, moved and extended vertical to the shoreline. Nevertheless, various kinds of sedimentary facies with a fairly great width were spread parallel to the shoreline.