Extensive deposition of banded iron formations was possible without photosynthesis
Abstract
A Precambrian ocean model is used to show that the abiotic photodissociation of FeOH(+) can quantitatively account for the formation of known Precambrian banded ion formations (BIFs). A global total photooxidation rate of 1.8 x 10 to the 14th mol Fe/yr is calculated. The model also shows that FeOH(+) photooxidation could produce BIF deposits as extensive as have been found in the Hamersley Basin. Since FeOH(+) photooxidation releases hydrogen, such a flux may have had important consequences for the oxidation state of the Precambrian atmosphere.
- Publication:
-
Nature
- Pub Date:
- March 1986
- DOI:
- 10.1038/320352a0
- Bibcode:
- 1986Natur.320..352F
- Keywords:
-
- Iron;
- Mineral Deposits;
- Ocean Models;
- Photodissociation;
- Atmospheric Chemistry;
- Ocean Currents;
- Oxidation;
- Ph;
- Photochemical Reactions;
- Geophysics