Mechanical model for subduction-collision tectonics of Alpine-type compressional orogens

Abstract

Research Article| August 01, 1996 Mechanical model for subduction-collision tectonics of Alpine-type compressional orogens Christopher Beaumont; Christopher Beaumont 1Oceanography Department, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada B3H 4J1 Search for other works by this author on: GSW Google Scholar Susan Ellis; Susan Ellis 1Oceanography Department, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada B3H 4J1 Search for other works by this author on: GSW Google Scholar Juliet Hamilton; Juliet Hamilton 1Oceanography Department, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada B3H 4J1 Search for other works by this author on: GSW Google Scholar Philippe Fullsack Philippe Fullsack 1Oceanography Department, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada B3H 4J1 Search for other works by this author on: GSW Google Scholar Author and Article Information Christopher Beaumont 1Oceanography Department, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada B3H 4J1 Susan Ellis 1Oceanography Department, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada B3H 4J1 Juliet Hamilton 1Oceanography Department, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada B3H 4J1 Philippe Fullsack 1Oceanography Department, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada B3H 4J1 Publisher: Geological Society of America First Online: 02 Jun 2017 Online ISSN: 1943-2682 Print ISSN: 0091-7613 Geological Society of America Geology (1996) 24 (8): 675–678. https://doi.org/10.1130/0091-7613(1996)024<0675:MMFSCT>2.3.CO;2 Article history First Online: 02 Jun 2017 Cite View This Citation Add to Citation Manager Share Icon Share Facebook Twitter LinkedIn MailTo Tools Icon Tools Get Permissions Search Site Citation Christopher Beaumont, Susan Ellis, Juliet Hamilton, Philippe Fullsack; Mechanical model for subduction-collision tectonics of Alpine-type compressional orogens. Geology 1996;; 24 (8): 675–678. doi: https://doi.org/10.1130/0091-7613(1996)024<0675:MMFSCT>2.3.CO;2 Download citation file: Ris (Zotero) Refmanager EasyBib Bookends Mendeley Papers EndNote RefWorks BibTex toolbar search Search Dropdown Menu toolbar search search input Search input auto suggest filter your search All ContentBy SocietyGeology Search Advanced Search Abstract Alpine-type orogens are characterized by three distinct convergent tectonic phases: subduction with deformation that has primarily single vergence, a transition from subduction to collision, and continental collision with double vergence. Although the Cenozoic history of the European Alps has additional complexities, a mechanical explanation for these three phases would provide the necessary crustal-scale framework in which to develop an understanding of the smaller-scale processes. We present results from a simple numerical model, which explain the mechanics of these three phases as a consequence of the changing buoyancy of the lithosphere subducted beneath the orogen. The development and exhumation of a subduction complex, suture zone, and basement nappe stack (Piemont suture, Penninic Nappes); the presence of a crustal-scale back fold and thrust (Insubric Line); and uplift of basement on the pro- (European) side of the orogen (external basement massifs) may be explained as a simple consequence of changing dynamics during the transition from subduction to collision. This content is PDF only. Please click on the PDF icon to access. First Page Preview Close Modal You do not have access to this content, please speak to your institutional administrator if you feel you should have access.