Variability in Contents of the Major Ore Components of Ferromanganese Formations in the Lakes–Seas–Oceans Series

Based on statistical methods, the available literature data were processed to analyze regularities in the distribution of five ore elements (Fe, Mn, Cu, Co, Ni) in ferromanganese nodules and crusts in an idealized lakes–seas–oceans profile. Application of the cluster analysis confirmed the regularities revealed by calculations of the mean contents of these elements and unraveled some additional features of their distribution.