Textural and origin of Cheshmeh Khorzan conglomerate (Arak Mighan Playa watershed) by multivariate statistical method

Cheshmeh Khorzan conglomerate is located in the Arak Mighan Playa watershed. Determining the texture characteristics and origin of conglomerates is one of the objectives of this study. In the Pliocene loose conglomerate, the particle diameters of the conglomerates varied in a wide range of granule, pebble, cobble and boulders in 51 areas. In addition, the components of conglomerates are mostly good rounded and poorly sorted. Regression analysis and probability level tests such as Student and Fisher test at 95% confidence level showed no significant relationship between roundness and particle diameter with transporting distance. The conglomerate is re-transported in the river and alluvial fan environment. They are close to their source, and their secondary components result from erosion of compact and old conglomerates. Multivariate statistical analyzes showed that the conglomerate components were rich in sandstone (45%), andesite (37%), limestone (7%), tuff (5%), rhyolite (3%), chert and basalt (3%). They have been obtained from the erosion of older formations in Central Iran. Good roundness shows high groundwater potential and high abundance of volcanic fragments indicate the good potential of the placer in the area.