Precision and accuracy of modal analysis methods for clastic deposits and rocks: A statistical and numerical modeling approach

Quantifying the proportions of certain components in rocks and deposits (modal analysis or componentry) is important earth sciences. Relevant methods for cross-sections (two- dimensional exposures) clastic include point counts line counts. The accuracy these has been supposed to be good literature but not necessarily verified empirically. Natural materials are inappropriate assessing because true each component unknown. precision modal traditionally evaluated from statistical models (primarily normal approximation binomial distribution) again rarely practice it also extremely difficult obtain different slices through same material at outcrop scale. Here we create a set numerical red blue spheres with sizes cut 60 models, on which perform We show that both indeed able retrieve correct volumetric components, average, when enough fragments counted intersected. As already known, controlled by abundance number points clasts However, other factors differences between slices, relevant our unequal-size proportion voids, matrix, and/or cement rock. present empirical charts clast based make recommendations future field studies.