Multivariate Statistical Discrimination of Selected Carbonate Petrograhic Classifications: Implications on Applicability of Classification Systems and Predictability of Petrographic Types

摘要

Distinction of carbonate petrographic types through multivariate statistical analysis utilizing quantitative petrographic and geochemical data has demonstrate the possibility of distinguishing different carbonate petrographic types trough statistical methods. The petrographic and geochemical variables, in isolation and in combination, produce marked distinction of the petrographic types of Dunham (1962), Embry and Klovan (1971) and the energy index of Plumley et al. (1962). It was observed that while the individual petrographic types of Embry and Klovan (1971) could be discriminated to a tune of 100% accuracy, discrimination of petrographic types of Dunham's classification shows a range between 72%-100% and that of Folk (1972) ranges from 0 to 70%. Given cognizance to the difference of perceptions on application of petrographic classification and prevailing incompatibility among the workers, the statistical classification could prove to be a reliable tool for eradicating the inconsistencies.