Improved methods of analysis and quantification of heavy mineral assemblages
in Cambrian to Early Cretaceous sandstones of southwest Sinai have revealed
successive changes in provenance that reflect both rejuvenation of the Arabian
Shield and changes in the topographic configuration of the source area. Three
mineral units have been identified in the Cambrian succession, at least three in
the Carboniferous and three in the Cretaceous. It is predicted that the genetic
units defined by these successive changes in mineralogy will be of regional
extent and thus assist in elucidating the history of uplift of the Arabian-Nubian
Shield and provide a better means of correlating sandstone units into adjacent
areas. Variation in the abundance of apatite in the Cambrian succession is
independent of provenance signature and is interpreted as reflecting alternating
dry and humid climatic conditions.