Classification of Quaternary stratigraphic structures and comparison of sedimentary characteristics on both sides of the Yangtze River in the Zhenjiang area

Zhenjiang, located in the upper tip of the Yangtze River delta, consists of two sets of sedimentary systems: Yangtze River sand body and Xiashu loess. This study presents the landscape division, typical drilling profiles and three integrated hole profiles so as to discuss sedimentary differences and correlation of two sedimentary systems. The results show that the two sets of sedimentary systems are different in sedimentary environment and mechanism, suggesting that the both have no necessary relation. The Xiashu loess deposited early than the Yangtze delta sand body, and was later reformed by climate and current alluviation. The main body of Yangtze River delta deposited with provenance from the Upper Reaches of Yangtze River. The sedimentary thickness of the Xiashu loess increases from center to east and thin in the south and west. The Yangtze River sand body is thin in the west and east. Therefore, the Yangtze River sand body is characterized by thick north bank and thin south bank.