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Subduction and collision processes in the Central Andes constrained by converted seismic phases
1GeoForschungsZentrum Potsdam, Telegrafenberg, Germany.
Nature
|January 5, 2001
Summary
Deep seismic imaging reveals that thinning of the lithospheric mantle, not just crustal thickening, contributed to the high Central Andes mountains. This study also provides evidence for delayed metamorphic reactions in the subducting Nazca plate.
Area of Science:
- Geophysics
- Tectonics
- Seismology
Background:
- The Central Andes are a major mountain range formed by ocean-continent collision.
- Uplift is primarily attributed to continental crustal thickening over the past 20 million years.
Purpose of the Study:
- To image the deep crustal and mantle structure beneath the Central Andes.
- To investigate the tectonic processes responsible for the region's significant uplift.
- To understand the behavior of the subducting Nazca plate.
Main Methods:
- Utilized P-to-S (compressional-to-shear) converted teleseismic waves.
- Deployed temporary seismic networks across the Altiplano and Puna plateaus.
- Analyzed Moho depth variations and subducted plate structure.
Main Results:
- Moho depth varies significantly, from 75 km under the Altiplano to 50 km under the Puna plateau.
- Thin crust beneath the high Puna plateau suggests lithospheric mantle thinning contributed to uplift.
- The subducting Nazca plate was imaged down to 120 km, where it becomes seismically invisible due to gabbro-eclogite transformation.
- An intracrustal low-velocity zone indicates ongoing metamorphism and partial melting beneath the plateaus.
Conclusions:
- Lithospheric mantle thinning is a key factor in the Puna plateau's uplift.
- Delayed metamorphic reactions, specifically gabbro-eclogite transformation, control the subducting Nazca plate's behavior and seismicity.
- An intracrustal low-velocity zone decouples upper and lower crustal deformation processes.
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