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We will discuss solid-state deformation
Plate Tectonic Theory Controls on the location and patterns of deformation
What drives plate motion? Ridge push - driven by elevation of mid- ocean ridge Slab pull - as ocean crust grows older and colder, it becomes progressively denser and sinks Basal traction - crust pulled from below by convecting mantle
Plate tectonic motions over time At times in the past, plates have come together to form large ‘supercontinents’ Land mass has at times been localized at the equator, at times stretched to the poles, sometimes concentrated in one hemisphere Plate motions can be described by rotations around poles Rotations produce convergent, divergent, and transcurrent motions at boundaries
Observing a structure What does it look like? Where is it found on the Earth, and what (if any) are its associations with other structures or specific rock types? What is its 3D geometry? What patterns do structures in this category or tectonic environment form? What do 3D geometry and patterns tell us about material controls (heterogeneity, anisotropy, relative competence) on formation?
Patterns of structures reflect the character of the tectonic boundary A complete map of active structures in this area would include folds
What about depth?
Character of structures in a given area depends on: Tectonic setting Rock type Temperature, pressure, fluid content Strain rate