ISSN:
1420-9136
Keywords:
Key words: Mantle lithosphere, radial seismic anisotropy.
Source:
Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
Topics:
Geosciences
,
Physics
Notes:
Abstract —Systematic variations of the seismic radial anisotropy ξ to depths of 200–250 km in North America and Eurasia and their surroundings are related to the age of continental provinces, and typical depth dependences of ξ R are determined. The relative radial anisotropy ξ R in the mantle lithosphere of Phanerozoic orogenic belts is characterized by ν SH 〉 ν SV , with its maximum depth of about 70 km, on the average, while beneath old shields and platforms, it exhibits a maximum deviation from ACY400 model (Montagner and Anderson, 1989) at depths of about 100 km with ν SV ≥ν SH signature. An interpretation of the observed seismic anisotropy by the preferred orientation of olivine crystals results in a model of the mantle lithosphere characterized by anisotropic structures plunging steeply beneath old shields and platforms, compared to less inclined anisotropies beneath Phanerozoic regions. This observation supports the idea derived from petrological and geochemical observations that a mode of continental lithosphere generation may have changed throughout earth's history.
Type of Medium:
Electronic Resource
URL:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s000240050114
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