Unit Book J2

The Temple Staircase (Version 1a)

J2 Synthetic View / Stratigraphy

Depositional data for Unit J2
Accretion

Caitlin Chaves Yates – December 2010

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Introduction

The accumulations and other accretions of J2 have a simple depositional process. They are primarily naturally deposited as a result of water, wind and other natural processes. Once the soil is deposited it is subject to different forces. In some cases it simply continues to build up, forming thick relatively homogenous deposits (such as are found close to the surface of the tell). In other cases the deposits occur in areas that are being used, and in some cases the deposits become compacted to form walking floors.

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Accumulations

The open area of the Plaza accounts for the majority of the natural deposits. They can be identified as natural due to the lack of installations or other indications of cultural use. This is not to imply the area was not used, but rather that it was used primarily as an open space, therefore not subject to the normal cultural activities of the tell such as burials, tannurs, or other deposits. Not all are thick natural deposits, but some are also thin layers that were compacted by use as walking floors.

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