ABSTRACT
The most widespread sediments on glaciated continental shelves (Fig. 12.1) are diamictons. There has been, and still is, much discussion on the origin of these diamictons. The correct interpretation of the continental shelf diamictons is vital for understanding the glacial history of the shelf in question. In this chapter the possible glacial and glacimarine origins of the diamictons will be elucidated. In addition to the glacial and glacimarine diamicton-forming processes it should be kept in mind that other processes, particularly debris flows, might generate diamictons on shelves.
