Geochemistry and Mineralogy of the Permian Red Beds and Related Copper Deposits, Payne, Pawnee, and Noble Counties, Oklahoma

Abstract

This study attempts to delineate "red bed" copper mineralization in north-central Oklahoma using geochemical and field techniques. Copper distribution in stream sediments and bed rock was used as a guide for the tracing of mineralization to its source. Computer programs for trend surface and statistical artalysis were used to prepare geochemical maps and to study relationships between spatial distribution of copper and clay minerals. Relations to other occurrences of copper in Oklahoma are discussed, and associations between copper occurrences and lithofacies of the host rocks within the study area are presented.