THE GEOLOGY OF SAMARRA QUADRANGLE SHEET NO. I-38H-SE

Abstract

This geological report is an explanatory text for the geology of the area covered by Samarra Quadrangle, sheet no. I-38-H/SE, scale 1:100 000, The map area is located in the central part of Iraq, characterized by flat terrain with low relief and dissected by wide and shallow valleys with deranged drainage pattern. The bulk of the Quaternary sequence is represented by the alluvial fan sediments which cover almost the whole map area. The Holocene sediments are relatively thin and they are classified according to their lithology, origin, and geomorphic position. Geomorphologically, the area is flat and of undulatory nature. Three geomorphological units are developed within the map area; these are: fluvial, evaporational and units of anthropogenic origin. Structurally, the map area is situated within the Mesopotamian Sub-Zone of Mesopotamia Foredeep, which is characterized by low amplitude structures. Samarra Anticline is included within the map area. Stratigraphicaly, the Quaternary sediments cover most of the map area besides Injana Formation which exposed in the extreme southwestern part of the map area. Hydrogeologically, two aquifers exist in the map area, one being represented by Quaternary gravel accumulations and the second by Injana Formation. The percentage of Ca++ and SO4= forms more than 75% of the components due to the secondary gypsum content. Moreover, the water is slightly sulphatic. The main economic raw materials within the map area are: Gravels, sands, gypcrete.