Multivariate statistical method for constrain on the origin of some elements in surface sediments in Semnan province and NE Isfahan province

Sediment transport occurs through various processes, whereby their origin is of great importance. Surface sediments of the Semnan province and NE Isfahan province (Khour and Biabanak) were sampled to examine the possibility of transportation by wind. Hence, 43 samples collected from surficial sediments of the Semnan and Isfahan provinces were analyzed using ICP method in the geochemistry lab of the Geological Survey of Iran. After testing outlier data were excluded from any further processing. To ensure confidence of any possible relation between elements, multiple statistical approach including principal component analysis (Pearson correlation), correlation analysis, cluster analysis, factor analysis and varimax boxes were applied. The results show that the elements including Zn, V, Ti, Sn, Sc, P, Ni, Mn, Cu, Cr, Co, Cd, Ba, represent reasonable correlation for samples of the Semnan province. Coeval existing of Co, Mn and Ni may reflect their geogenic source, particularly from intermediate to basic volcanic rocks exposed around the area. In Khour and Biabanak area, V, Ti, Sn, Sc, Pb, P, Ni, Mn, Cu, Cr, Co, Cd, Zn are closely related, which probably points to their origin from altered ultramafic rocks of the Proterozoic-early Paleozoic exposed around the area. There are positive factors in levels 1, 3 and 4 may be affected by various geological formations exposed around the studied areas. However, combined role of human or agricultural activity are more plausible for level 3 in factor analysis.