A preliminary study of the relation between topographic features and the distribution of polymetallic nodules in Japanese License Area, Central Pacific

摘要

In this study, we have considered the relation between topographic features and the distribution of polymetallic nodules based on their sizes and chemical composition in the Japanese License Area, Clarion-Clipperton Fracture Zone, Central Pacific. It has been observed that small nodules are distributed on rather steep slopes with relatively low Ni + Cu content (average 2.0%), whereas larger nodules are distributed on gentle slopes with higher Ni + Cu content (ave. 2.5%). These indicate that the size and chemical composition of nodules are controlled by topographic features and growth processes.