Spatial variations in sediment production and surface transformations in subtropical fluvial basins (Caculuvar River, south‐west Angola): Implications for the composition of sedimentary deposits

Several compositional features of sedimentary deposits can be used to reconstruct environmental conditions source areas. In this research, bulk X-ray diffraction mineralogy, heavy and clay mineral assemblages geochemistry obtained for modern the Cunene River its tributaries Caculuvar–Mucope are integrated with geological/geomorphological characteristics respective catchment areas evaluate what extent sediment production is spatially variable materials differently affected by exogenous transformations. Detrital sources classified into four main types based on composition: felsic, mafic, recycled mixed. Source contributions unmixing models using distinct input data reveal some disagreements, pointing higher mafic contribution XRD-mineralogy favouring component. However, three datasets coincide showing a lower supply from Kalahari Basin than large outcropping units would suggest, which attributed relatively low rainfall relief in region. Where multiple depositional cycles involved composition river deposits, even their fractions, will not reflect coeval weathering transformations an under-estimation component probably occurs. This research reveals how processes may deviate produced simple weighted area average compromise (palaeo)environmental interpretations composition.