What is a Source-to-Sink System?
A source-to-sink analysis is a method in sedimentary geology that integrates the studies of an entire sedimentary system from its upstream source in the continental area to the ultimate depositional sink , most commonly on deep basin s, in a process that can take from thousands to millions of years to be completed. Source-to-sink system schematic (modified from Martinsen et al., 2010). There are three main elements in the source-to-sink system, source, transfer zone, and sink. 1) Source Source area in the source-to-sink system is in the continental realm where the main erosional processes occur. The erosion process in the source area is mainly driven by slow processes which can take millions of years: tectonics and climate. Tectonics generates high relief structures like mountains while climatic factors like precipitation bring water down the mountains. Hence, more sediment supply can be provided from the source area. During the erosion pro...