Why are the deep sea clays mostly red or brown?
A) They are mostly volcanic ash particles erupted onto the seafloor; this is their colour.
B) These are the residues of red algae blooms, dispersed by ocean currents to settle out everywhere.
C) Slow settling of fine clay- sized mineral particles allows for complete oxidation of their iron by dissolved oxygen.
D) They are eroded mostly from desert areas and carried to the sea by winds or rainstorms.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The red or brown color of deep sea clays is primarily due to the slow settling of fine clay-sized mineral particles, which allows for the complete oxidation of their iron content by dissolved oxygen. This oxidation process gives the clays their characteristic colors.

Why Are the Deep Sea Clays Mostly Red or Brown