East Asian continental tectonics challenges the plate tectonics paradigm with its diffuse intraplate deformation,magmatism,and earthquakes.Despite extensive studies,fundamental questions persist.This review examines t...East Asian continental tectonics challenges the plate tectonics paradigm with its diffuse intraplate deformation,magmatism,and earthquakes.Despite extensive studies,fundamental questions persist.This review examines ten critical questions of East Asian tectonics,including the thickness of the continental lithosphere,the origin of the North–South Gravity Lineament,and the northern extent of the Indian plate beneath the Tibetan Plateau.Additional questions address the Tibetan Plateau's lateral growth,the Tianshan mountain building,the mantle flow in response to the Indo-Asian collision,and the formation of the Shanxi Rift.The review also explores the subduction along the eastern margins of the East Asian Continent and the origins of the Changbaishan volcanic field,the destruction of the North China Craton,and the development of the Mesozoic Large Granitic Province in South China.Originally presented at the DEEP2024 workshop to stimulate discussion of how SinoProbe-II research initiatives could advance our understanding of Asian tectonics,this review provides context for each question,summarizes current knowledge,and identifies promising research directions.展开更多
The tectonic setting of the Himalaya during the Early Paleozoic has been a subject of enduring debate within the scientific community.Newly discovered bimodal intrusive rocks from comprehensive field geological invest...The tectonic setting of the Himalaya during the Early Paleozoic has been a subject of enduring debate within the scientific community.Newly discovered bimodal intrusive rocks from comprehensive field geological investigation in the central mountain range were subjected to petrology,zircon U-Pb geochronology,zircon Hf isotopes and whole-rock geochemistry analyses.The Palie bimodal intrusive rocks,comprising amphibolite and granitic gneiss,were formed at~489 Ma.The amphibolite exhibits geochemical characteristics consistent with N-MORB,while the granitic gneiss is classified as high potassium calc-alkaline peraluminous S-type granite.Both igneous rocks exhibit negative zirconε_(Hf)(t)values and display ancient T_(DM)^(C)ages.In conjunction with regional geological survey findings,it can be inferred that the formation of the Palie bimodal intrusive rocks occurred within a post-collision extensional tectonic setting.The amphibolite genesis involved partial melting of an enriched lithospheric mantle with some crustal assimilation,whereas the origin of the granitic gneiss can be attributed to partial melting of pre-existing felsic crust.Our data indicate that during the Early Paleozoic,the Himalaya underwent a transition from a pan-African collisional setting to post-collisional extensional tectonics.展开更多
This research investigates dynamic earth processes within the South Setifian allochthonous ensemble,providing insights into landscape evolution and seismotectonic activity within the Tellian mountain chain.Focusing on...This research investigates dynamic earth processes within the South Setifian allochthonous ensemble,providing insights into landscape evolution and seismotectonic activity within the Tellian mountain chain.Focusing on the Jebel Gustar and Kef Lahmar area,which includes 14 sub-basins,this research uses a DEM-based technique to assess Holocene activities,lineament characteristics,and stream systems.Five geomorphic indices are used to assess relative active tectonics:the stream lengthgradient index(SL),drainage basin asymmetry(AF),valley-floor width to valley height ratio(VF),drainage basin shape(BS),and mountain front sinuosity(SMF).A weighted overlay of these five indices produces the Index of Relative Active Tectonics(IRAT)map.The findings reveal significant neotectonic activity in the study area,supported by profound basement faulting.This research highlights the morpho-structural processes and neotectonics activity in the Jebel Gustar,providing a framework for investigating the evolution of this structure.Additionally,it enhances comprehension of the interactions between the alpine range's internal zones in Eastern Algeria and the Atlasic domain.This study proposes a systematic approach to evaluate the tectonic and geomorphological dynamics of the South Setif region.展开更多
In this article,the contemporary stress state of the Zhao-Ping metallogenic belt in eastern China was revealed using overcoring and hydraulic fracturing stress data,the relation between the stress field and geological...In this article,the contemporary stress state of the Zhao-Ping metallogenic belt in eastern China was revealed using overcoring and hydraulic fracturing stress data,the relation between the stress field and geological tectonics was discussed,and the stability of regional faults under the present-day stress environment was evaluated.The results indicate that the stress level is considerably high,and the distribution of stress intensity is uneven.The stress regime is primarily characterized by σ_(H)>σ_(v)>σ_(h).The σ_(H) orientation is well-oriented in the WNW-ESE,which is roughly identical to other stress indicators.Moreover,theσH direction reflected by joint strikes and inferred based on the fault characteristics agrees fairly with the identified stress orientation.The modern stress field basically inherited the tectonic stress field of the Yanshanian and Himalayan periods but is principally dominated by the Himalayan period.Additionally,the calculatedμm ranges from 0.2 to 0.7,indicating that the possibility of shallow faults across this area being reactivated and experiencing shear failure is small overall under the current stress conditions.μm=0.2 and 0.5 are suggested as the lower and upper limits for predicting and analyzing future fault activity in the area,respectively.展开更多
A systematic study of early Paleozoic S-type granites in Pinghe enhances our understanding of the tectonic evolution of proto-Tethys and provides a foundation for exploring rare metal deposits in the region.The Pinghe...A systematic study of early Paleozoic S-type granites in Pinghe enhances our understanding of the tectonic evolution of proto-Tethys and provides a foundation for exploring rare metal deposits in the region.The Pinghe granites consist of monzogranite and leucogranite.Zircon U-Pb dating shows that the emplacement ages of the monzogranite and leucogranite are 502.0 Ma and 500.9 Ma,respectively.All samples have high SiO_(2) content and a weakly to strongly peraluminous character(A/CNK=1.08-1.23),consistent with S-type granites.The monzogranite has relatively high CaO,Sr,Ba,and CaO/Na_(2)O ratios but lower Rb.In contrast,the leucogranite has lower CaO,Sr,Ba,and CaO/Na_(2)O ratios but higher Rb.The similar ε_(Nd)(t)values(−9.3 to−8.4)and Pb isotopic compositions((^(206)Pb/^(204)Pb)t=18.03-19.36,(^(207)Pb/^(204)Pb)t=15.66-15.76,(^(208)Pb/^(204)Pb)t=37.97-38.55)suggest that the monzogranite formed through partial melting of crustal greywacke,while the leucogranite originated from partial melting of crustal pelite.Regional geological studies suggest that these S-type granites in Pinghe were emplaced in an active continental margin setting,associated with the westward subduction of the proto-Tethys oceanic slab.The geochemical characteristics of leucogranite are consistent with those of tungsten-tin-related granites,indicating significant metallogenic potential for W and Sn deposits.展开更多
Tectonic activities significantly impact deep reservoir properties via sedimentary and diagenetic processes,and this is particularly true for lacustrine rift basins.The tectonic-sedimentary-diageneticreservoir system ...Tectonic activities significantly impact deep reservoir properties via sedimentary and diagenetic processes,and this is particularly true for lacustrine rift basins.The tectonic-sedimentary-diageneticreservoir system is crucial in deep reservoir exploration.This study examined the first member and upper submember of the second member of the Dongying Formation in the Bodong Low Uplift in the Bohai Bay Basin(East China),documenting the petrologic features and physical properties of reservoirs in different tectonic sub-units through integrated analysis of log and rock data,along with core observation.A mechanism for deep reservoir formation in lacustrine rift basins was developed to elucidate the sedimentary and diagenetic processes in complex tectonic settings.The results show that tectonic activities result in the occurrence of provenances in multiple directions and the existence of reservoirs at varying burial depths,as well as the significant diversity in sedimentary and diagenetic processes.The grain sizes of the sandstones,influenced by transport pathways rather than the topography of the sedimentary area,exhibit spatial complexity due to tectonic frameworks,which determine the initial pore content of reservoirs.However,the burial depth,influenced by subsequent tectonic subsidence,significantly impacts pore evolution during diagenesis.Based on the significant differences of reservoirs in slope zone,low uplift and depression zone,we establish different tectonic-diagenetic models in deep complex tectonic units of lacustrine rift basins.展开更多
Fractal geometry quantitatively analyzes the irregular distribution of geological features,highlighting the dynamic aspects of tectonics,seismic heterogeneity,and geological maturity.This study analyzed the active fau...Fractal geometry quantitatively analyzes the irregular distribution of geological features,highlighting the dynamic aspects of tectonics,seismic heterogeneity,and geological maturity.This study analyzed the active fault data along the Kuhbanan fault zone in southeastern Iran by applying the boxcounting method and observing the changes in Coulomb stress and tried to find the potential triggering parts.The entire region was divided into 16subzones with the box-counting method,and then the fractal dimension(D)in each zone was calculated.The analysis of the fractal dimension for active faults and earthquake epicenters along with the seismicity parameter(b)and their ratio in the Kuhbanan region indicates an imbalance between seismic fractals and faults.This finding suggests that the area may have the potential for future earthquakes or hidden faults.In conjunction with b-value and changes in Coulomb stress change,D-value analysis reveals intense tectonic activity and stress accumulation,particularly within the Ravar,Zarand,and Kianshahr sections.It may be considered a potential location for future earthquakes.The changes in Coulomb stress resulting from the 2005Dahuieh earthquake have also placed this region within the stress accumulation zone,potentially triggering the mentioned areas.This integrative approach,backed by historical earthquake data,highlights the impact of fault geometry and stress dynamics,offering an enhanced framework for earthquake forecasting and seismic risk mitigation applicable to other tectonically active areas within the Iranian plateau.展开更多
When plate tectonics began on the Earth has been long debated and here we argue this topic based on the records of Earth-Moon geology and asteroid belt to conclude that the onset of plate tectonics was during the midd...When plate tectonics began on the Earth has been long debated and here we argue this topic based on the records of Earth-Moon geology and asteroid belt to conclude that the onset of plate tectonics was during the middle Hadean（4.37-4.20 Ga）. The trigger of the initiation of plate tectonics is the ABEL Bombardment, which delivered oceanic and atmospheric components on a completely dry reductive Earth, originally comprised of enstatite chondrite-like materials. Through the accretion of volatiles, shock metamorphism processed with vaporization of both CI chondrite and supracrustal rocks at the bombarded location, and significant recrystallization went through under wet conditions, caused considerable eclogitization in the primordial continents composed of felsic upper crust of 21 km thick anorthosite, and 50 km or even thicker KREEP lower crust. Eclogitization must have yielded a powerful slab-pull force to initiate plate tectonics in the middle Hadean. Another important factor is the size of the bombardment. By creating Pacific Ocean class crater by 1000 km across impactor, rigid plate operating stagnant lid tectonics since the early Hadean was severely destroyed, and oceanic lithosphere was generated to have bi-modal lithosphere on the Earth to enable the operation of plate tectonics.Considering the importance of the ABEL Bombardment event which initiated plate tectonics including the appearance of ocean and atmosphere, we propose that the Hadean Eon can be subdivided into three periods：（1） early Hadean（4.57-4.37 Ga）,（2） middle Hadean（4.37-4.20 Ga）, and（3） late Hadean（4.20-4.00 Ga）.展开更多
The present study area,Dadra and Nagar Haveli,contains several lineaments and traces of active faults.The various aspect of the geomo rphic analysis,i.e.,stream length(SL) gradient,hypsometric integral(HI),basin shape...The present study area,Dadra and Nagar Haveli,contains several lineaments and traces of active faults.The various aspect of the geomo rphic analysis,i.e.,stream length(SL) gradient,hypsometric integral(HI),basin shape(BS),valley floor(VF),have been applied to evaluate the relative index of active tectonics(RIAT) of the Damanganga watershed.The high and low zones of tectonic activity have been identified based on the geomorphic analysis of the watershed.After evaluation of all indices,three classes,class IIhigh(1.3 ≤RIAT <1.5),class Ⅲ-moderate(1.5 ≤RIAT <1.8),and class Ⅳ-low(1.8 ≤RIAT),have been obtained to outline the degree/gradation of comparative tectonic activities in the study area.The appraised outcome of the RIAT dispersal is also well reinforced by the geomorphic evidence in the field.The collective outcomes of geomorphic evidence,such as stream deflection and analysis of lineament,deflection of streams,and geomorphic indices,conceal that the Damanganga watershed is affected by tectonic activity.展开更多
The intermontane basins are some of the critical regions to investigate the formation,growth,and development of basins during the collisional orogenesis,and in the NW Himalaya several such basins are observed to have ...The intermontane basins are some of the critical regions to investigate the formation,growth,and development of basins during the collisional orogenesis,and in the NW Himalaya several such basins are observed to have formed during the latest phase of the ongoing collision between India and Eurasia(Burbank and Johnson,1982).展开更多
This paper reviews briefly the progresses made during the last four years (1999~2002) in study of seismotectonics in China, especially appraises the achievements in the fields of the crustal and upper mantles structur...This paper reviews briefly the progresses made during the last four years (1999~2002) in study of seismotectonics in China, especially appraises the achievements in the fields of the crustal and upper mantles structure, the active faults and tectonic setting of large earthquakes, the crustal deformation, and the numerical simulation. Most earthquakes occurred in China belong to continental earthquakes. Therefore, Chinese seismologists pay more attention to the continental earthquakes. Based on improvements of the observation systems in China during the ninth Five-Year Plan, the studies on seismotectonics have achieved great progresses.展开更多
I graduated as a geology major from the former Zhongyang (National) University in 1938 and then worked as a research scholar at Kings College in the University of London from 1949 to 1951.I was one of the pioneers in ...I graduated as a geology major from the former Zhongyang (National) University in 1938 and then worked as a research scholar at Kings College in the University of London from 1949 to 1951.I was one of the pioneers in plate tectonic and terrain tectonic studies in China,devoting myself to the regional geotectonics and plate tectonics of southern China for several decades,making significant achievements in these fields.Throughout the life-long course of my academic career,I have published and coauthored some 120 research papers or monographic books at home or abroad.展开更多
During the Late Mesozoic Middle Jurassic--Late Cretaceous, basin and range tectonics and associated magmatism representative of an extensional tectonic setting was widespread in southeastern China as a result of Pacif...During the Late Mesozoic Middle Jurassic--Late Cretaceous, basin and range tectonics and associated magmatism representative of an extensional tectonic setting was widespread in southeastern China as a result of Pacific Plate subduction. Basin tectonics consists of post-orogenic （Type I） and intra-continental extensional basins （Type II）. Type I basins developed in the piedmont and intraland during the Late Triassic to Early Jurassic, in which coarse-grained terrestrial clastic sediments were deposited. Type II basins formed during intra-continental crustal thinning and were characterized by the development of grabens and half-grabens. Graben basins were mainly generated during the Middle Jurassic and were associated with bimodal volcanism. Sediments in half-grabens are intercalated with rhyolitic tufts and lavas and are Early Cretaceous in age with a dominance of Late Cretaceous-Paleogene red beds. Ranges are composed of granitoids and bimodal volcanic rocks, A-type granites and dome-type metamorphic core complexes. The authors analyzed lithological, geochemical and geochronological features of the Late Mesozoic igneous rock assemblages and proposed some geodynamical constraints on forming the basin and range tectonics of South China. A comparison of the similarities and differences of basin and range tectonics between the eastern and western shores of the Pacific is made, and the geo- dynamical evolution model of the Southeast China Block during Late Mesozoic is discussed. Studied results suggest that the basin and range terrane within South China developed on a pre-Mesozoic folded belt was derived from a polyphase tectonic evolution mainly constrained by subduction of the western Pacific Plate since the Late Mesozoic, leading to formation of various magmatism in a back-arc exten- sional setting. Its geodynamic mechanism can compare with that of basin and range tectonics in the eastern shore of the Pacific. Differences of basin and range tectonics between both shores of the Pacific, such as mantle plume formation, scales of extensional and igneous rock assemblages and the age of basin and range tectonics, were caused mainly by the Yellowstone mantle plume in the eastern shore of the Pacific.展开更多
The evolution of Earth＇s biosphere,atmosphere and hydrosphere is tied to the formation of continental crust and its subsequent movements on tectonic plates.The supercontinent cycle posits that the continental crust i...The evolution of Earth＇s biosphere,atmosphere and hydrosphere is tied to the formation of continental crust and its subsequent movements on tectonic plates.The supercontinent cycle posits that the continental crust is periodically amalgamated into a single landmass,subsequently breaking up and dispersing into various continental fragments.Columbia is possibly the first true supercontinent,it amalgamated during the 2.0-1.7 Ga period,and collisional orogenesis resulting from its formation peaked at 1.95-1.85 Ga.Geological and palaeomagnetic evidence indicate that Columbia remained as a quasi-integral continental lid until at least 1.3 Ga.Numerous break-up attempts are evidenced by dyke swarms with a large temporal and spatial range; however,palaeomagnetic and geologic evidence suggest these attempts remained unsuccessful.Rather than dispersing into continental fragments,the Columbia supercontinent underwent only minor modifications to form the next supercontinent （Rodinia） at 1.1 -0.9 Ga; these included the transformation of external accretionary belts into the internal Grenville and equivalent collisional belts.Although Columbia provides evidence for a form of ‘lid tectonics’,modern style plate tectonics occurred on its periphery in the form of accretionary orogens.The detrital zircon and preserved geological record are compatible with an increase in the volume of continental crust during Columbia＇s lifespan; this is a consequence of the continuous accretionary processes along its margins.The quiescence in plate tectonic movements during Columbia＇s lifespan is correlative with a long period of stability in Earth＇s atmospheric and oceanic chemistry.Increased variability starting at 1.3 Ga in the environmental record coincides with the transformation of Columbia to Rodinia; thus,the link between plate tectonics and environmental change is strengthened with this interpretation of supercontinent history.展开更多
There is a massive amount of geomorphic evidence for active tectonics in the Longmen Shan at the eastern margin of the Tibetan plateau. We have surveyed some typical geomorphic markers including the Wenchuan-Maowen, B...There is a massive amount of geomorphic evidence for active tectonics in the Longmen Shan at the eastern margin of the Tibetan plateau. We have surveyed some typical geomorphic markers including the Wenchuan-Maowen, Beichuan-Yingxiu and Pengxian-Guanxian faults, terrace offsets, scarps, fault-controlled saddles, dextral shutter ridges, dextral channel offsets, graben, shatter belts, and pull-apart basins. Electron spin resonance （ESR） and thermoluminescence（TL） ages were obtained using silty sand taken from below the surface of the sediments. According to these data, we calculated the rates of thrusting and strike-slip, and the results indicate that Cenozoic tectonic shortening at the plateau margin is minor with the rate of thrusting less than 1.10 mm/a and the rate of strike-slipping less than 1.46 mm/a. The Longmen Shan is a zone of NNE-trending dextral shear with slip-dip ratio of 6：1-1.3：1. From NW to SE, the thrust component becomes smaller, whereas the strike-slip component becomes larger.展开更多
To better understand Earth's present tectonic style-plate tectonics—and how it may have evolved from single plate(stagnant lid) tectonics, it is instructive to consider how common it is among similar bodies in th...To better understand Earth's present tectonic style-plate tectonics—and how it may have evolved from single plate(stagnant lid) tectonics, it is instructive to consider how common it is among similar bodies in the Solar System. Plate tectonics is a style of convection for an active planetoid where lid fragment(plate) motions reflect sinking of dense lithosphere in subduction zones, causing upwelling of asthenosphere at divergent plate boundaries and accompanied by focused upwellings, or mantle plumes;any other tectonic style is usefully called "stagnant lid" or "fragmented lid". In 2015 humanity completed a 50+ year effort to survey the 30 largest planets, asteroids, satellites, and inner Kuiper Belt objects,which we informally call "planetoids" and use especially images of these bodies to infer their tectonic activity. The four largest planetoids are enveloped in gas and ice(Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune)and are not considered. The other 26 planetoids range in mass over 5 orders of magnitude and in diameter over 2 orders of magnitude, from massive Earth down to tiny Proteus; these bodies also range widely in density, from 1000 to 5500 kg/m^3. A gap separates 8 silicate planetoids with ρ = 3000 kg/m^3 or greater from 20 icy planetoids(including the gaseous and icy giant planets) with ρ = 2200 kg/m^3 or less. We define the "Tectonic Activity Index"(TAI), scoring each body from 0 to 3 based on evidence for recent volcanism, deformation, and resurfacing(inferred from impact crater density). Nine planetoids with TAI = 2 or greater are interpreted to be tectonically and convectively active whereas 17 with TAI <2 are inferred to be tectonically dead. We further infer that active planetoids have lithospheres or icy shells overlying asthenosphere or water/weak ice. TAI of silicate(rocky) planetoids positively correlates with their inferred Rayleigh number. We conclude that some type of stagnant lid tectonics is the dominant mode of heat loss and that plate tectonics is unusual. To make progress understanding Earth's tectonic history and the tectonic style of active exoplanets, we need to better understand the range and controls of active stagnant lid tectonics.展开更多
Many geological and geochemical changes are recorded on Earth between 3 and 2 Ga.Among the more important of these are the following:(1)increasing proportion of basalts with"arc-like"mantle sources;(2)an inc...Many geological and geochemical changes are recorded on Earth between 3 and 2 Ga.Among the more important of these are the following:(1)increasing proportion of basalts with"arc-like"mantle sources;(2)an increasing abundance of basalts derived from enriched(EM)and depleted(DM)mantle sources;(3)onset of a Great Thermal Divergence in the mantle;(4)a decrease in degree of melting of the mantle;(5)beginning of large lateral plate motions;(6)appearance of eclogite inclusions in diamonds;(7)appearance and rapid increase in frequency of collisional orogens;(8)rapid increase in the production rate of continental crust as recorded by zircon age peaks;(9)appearance of ophiolites in the geologic record,and(10)appearance of global LIP(large igneous province)events some of which correlate with global zircon age peaks.All of these changes may be tied directly or indirectly to cooling of Earth's mantle and corresponding changes in convective style and the strength of the lithosphere,and they may record the gradual onset and propagation of plate tectonics around the planet.To further understand the changes that occurred between 3 and 2 Ga,it is necessary to compare rocks,rock associations,tectonics and geochemistry during and between zircon age peaks.Geochemistry of peak and inter-peak basalts and TTGs needs to be evaluated in terms of geodynamic models that predict the existence of an episodic thermal regime between stagnant-lid and plate tectonic regimes in early planetary evolution.展开更多
Plate tectonics describes the horizontal motion of rigid lithospheric plates away from midoceanic ridges and parallel to transforms, towards deep-sea trenches, where the oceanic lithosphere is subducted into the mantl...Plate tectonics describes the horizontal motion of rigid lithospheric plates away from midoceanic ridges and parallel to transforms, towards deep-sea trenches, where the oceanic lithosphere is subducted into the mantle. This process is the surface expression of modern-day heat loss from Earth. One of the biggest questions in Geosciences today is ＂when did plate tectonics begin on Earth＂ with a wide range of theories based on an equally diverse set of constraints from geology, geochemistry, numerical modeling, or pure speculation. In this contribution, we turn the coin over and ask ＂when was the last appearance in the geological record for which there is proof that plate tectonics did not operate on the planet as it does today＂. We apply the laws of uniformitarianism to the rock record to ask how far back in time is the geologic record consistent with presently-operating kinematics of plate motion, before which some other mechanisms of planetary heat loss may have been in operation. Some have suggested that evidence shows that there was no plate tectonics before 800 Ma ago, others sometime before 1.8–2.7 Ga, or before 2.7 Ga. Still others recognize evidence for plate tectonics as early as 3.0 Ga, 3.3–3.5 Ga, the age of the oldest rocks, or in the Hadean before 4.3 Ga. A key undiscussed question is： why is there such a diversity of opinion about the age at which plate tectonics can be shown to not have operated, and what criteria are the different research groups using to define plate tectonics, and to recognize evidence of plate tectonics in very old rocks？ Here, we present and evaluate data from the rock record, constrained by relevant geochemical-isotopic data, and conclude that the evidence shows indubitably that plate tectonics has been operating at least since the formation of the oldest rocks, albeit with some differences in processes, compositions, and products in earlier times of higher heat generation and mantle temperature, weaker oceanic lithosphere, hotter subduction zones caused by more slab-melt generation, and under different biological and atmospheric conditions.展开更多
This paper gives a synthetic view on the Jurassic tectonics of North China, with an attempt to propose a framework for the stepwise tectonic evolution history. Jurassic sedimentation, deformation and magmatism in Nort...This paper gives a synthetic view on the Jurassic tectonics of North China, with an attempt to propose a framework for the stepwise tectonic evolution history. Jurassic sedimentation, deformation and magmatism in North China have been divided into three stages. The earliest Jurassic is marked by a period of magmatism quiescence （in 205-190 Ma） and regional uplift, which are considered to be the continuation of the “Indosinian movement” characterized by continent-continent collision between the North and South China blocks. The Early to Middle Jurassic （in 190-170 Ma） was predominated by weak lithospheric extension expressed by mantle-derived plutonism and volcanism along the Yanshan belt and alongside the Tan-Lu fault zone, normal faulting and graben formation along the Yinshan- Yanshan tectonic belt, depression and resuming of coal-bearing sedimentation in vast regions of the North China block （NCB）. The Middle to Late Jurassic stage started at 165y.5 Ma and ended up before 136 Ma; it was dominated by intensive intraplate deformation resulting from multi-directional compressions. Two major deformation events have been identified. One is marked by stratigraphic unconformity beneath the thick Upper Jurassic molasic series in the foreland zones of the western Ordos thrust-fold belt and along the Yinshan-Yanshan belt; it was predated 160 Ma. The other one is indicated by stratigraphic unconformity at the base of the Lower Cretaceous and predated 135 Ma. During this last stage, two latitudinal tectonic belts, the Yinshan-Yanshan belt in the north and the Qinling-Dabie belt in the south, and the western margin of the Ordos basin were all activated by thrusting; the NCB itself was deformed by the NE to NNE-trending structural system involving thrusting, associated folding and sinistral strike-slip faulting, which were spatially partitioned. Foliated S-type granitic plutons aged 160-150 Ma were massively emplaced in the Jiao-Liao massif east of the Tan-Lu fault zone and indicate important crustal thickening in this part of the NCB. The Jurassic deformation patterns, different tectonic systems and multi-directional contractions in North China recorded far-field effects of synchronous convergences, toward the East Asian continent, of three different plates, the Siberian plate in the north, the paleo-Pacific oceanic plate in the east and the Lhasa block in the southwest. This Middle to Late Jurassic intraplate orogenesis and pervasive shortening deformation preceded lithospheric attenuation and thinning in East China, which most possibly started by the Early Cretaceous around 135 Ma.展开更多
基金supported by grants from the National Science Foundation of the USA.
文摘East Asian continental tectonics challenges the plate tectonics paradigm with its diffuse intraplate deformation,magmatism,and earthquakes.Despite extensive studies,fundamental questions persist.This review examines ten critical questions of East Asian tectonics,including the thickness of the continental lithosphere,the origin of the North–South Gravity Lineament,and the northern extent of the Indian plate beneath the Tibetan Plateau.Additional questions address the Tibetan Plateau's lateral growth,the Tianshan mountain building,the mantle flow in response to the Indo-Asian collision,and the formation of the Shanxi Rift.The review also explores the subduction along the eastern margins of the East Asian Continent and the origins of the Changbaishan volcanic field,the destruction of the North China Craton,and the development of the Mesozoic Large Granitic Province in South China.Originally presented at the DEEP2024 workshop to stimulate discussion of how SinoProbe-II research initiatives could advance our understanding of Asian tectonics,this review provides context for each question,summarizes current knowledge,and identifies promising research directions.
基金supported by the China Geological Survey Program(Grant No.DD20220989)the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Grant No.41972118)。
文摘The tectonic setting of the Himalaya during the Early Paleozoic has been a subject of enduring debate within the scientific community.Newly discovered bimodal intrusive rocks from comprehensive field geological investigation in the central mountain range were subjected to petrology,zircon U-Pb geochronology,zircon Hf isotopes and whole-rock geochemistry analyses.The Palie bimodal intrusive rocks,comprising amphibolite and granitic gneiss,were formed at~489 Ma.The amphibolite exhibits geochemical characteristics consistent with N-MORB,while the granitic gneiss is classified as high potassium calc-alkaline peraluminous S-type granite.Both igneous rocks exhibit negative zirconε_(Hf)(t)values and display ancient T_(DM)^(C)ages.In conjunction with regional geological survey findings,it can be inferred that the formation of the Palie bimodal intrusive rocks occurred within a post-collision extensional tectonic setting.The amphibolite genesis involved partial melting of an enriched lithospheric mantle with some crustal assimilation,whereas the origin of the granitic gneiss can be attributed to partial melting of pre-existing felsic crust.Our data indicate that during the Early Paleozoic,the Himalaya underwent a transition from a pan-African collisional setting to post-collisional extensional tectonics.
文摘This research investigates dynamic earth processes within the South Setifian allochthonous ensemble,providing insights into landscape evolution and seismotectonic activity within the Tellian mountain chain.Focusing on the Jebel Gustar and Kef Lahmar area,which includes 14 sub-basins,this research uses a DEM-based technique to assess Holocene activities,lineament characteristics,and stream systems.Five geomorphic indices are used to assess relative active tectonics:the stream lengthgradient index(SL),drainage basin asymmetry(AF),valley-floor width to valley height ratio(VF),drainage basin shape(BS),and mountain front sinuosity(SMF).A weighted overlay of these five indices produces the Index of Relative Active Tectonics(IRAT)map.The findings reveal significant neotectonic activity in the study area,supported by profound basement faulting.This research highlights the morpho-structural processes and neotectonics activity in the Jebel Gustar,providing a framework for investigating the evolution of this structure.Additionally,it enhances comprehension of the interactions between the alpine range's internal zones in Eastern Algeria and the Atlasic domain.This study proposes a systematic approach to evaluate the tectonic and geomorphological dynamics of the South Setif region.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(52204084)the Open Research Fund of The State Key Laboratory of Coal Resources and safe Mining,CUMT(SKLCRSM23KF004)+3 种基金the Interdisciplinary Research Project for Young Teachers of USTB(Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities)(FRF-IDRY-GD22-002)the Fundamen〓〓tal Research Funds for the Central Universities and the Youth Teacher International Exchange and Growth Program(QNXM20220009)the National Key R&D Program of China(2022YFC2905600 and 2022YFC3004601)the Science,Technology&Innovation Proj〓〓ect of Xiongan New Area(2023XAGG0061).
文摘In this article,the contemporary stress state of the Zhao-Ping metallogenic belt in eastern China was revealed using overcoring and hydraulic fracturing stress data,the relation between the stress field and geological tectonics was discussed,and the stability of regional faults under the present-day stress environment was evaluated.The results indicate that the stress level is considerably high,and the distribution of stress intensity is uneven.The stress regime is primarily characterized by σ_(H)>σ_(v)>σ_(h).The σ_(H) orientation is well-oriented in the WNW-ESE,which is roughly identical to other stress indicators.Moreover,theσH direction reflected by joint strikes and inferred based on the fault characteristics agrees fairly with the identified stress orientation.The modern stress field basically inherited the tectonic stress field of the Yanshanian and Himalayan periods but is principally dominated by the Himalayan period.Additionally,the calculatedμm ranges from 0.2 to 0.7,indicating that the possibility of shallow faults across this area being reactivated and experiencing shear failure is small overall under the current stress conditions.μm=0.2 and 0.5 are suggested as the lower and upper limits for predicting and analyzing future fault activity in the area,respectively.
基金funded by the Science and Technology Department of Yunnan Province(202303AA080006)the National Natural Science Foundation of China(41972312 and 41672329).
文摘A systematic study of early Paleozoic S-type granites in Pinghe enhances our understanding of the tectonic evolution of proto-Tethys and provides a foundation for exploring rare metal deposits in the region.The Pinghe granites consist of monzogranite and leucogranite.Zircon U-Pb dating shows that the emplacement ages of the monzogranite and leucogranite are 502.0 Ma and 500.9 Ma,respectively.All samples have high SiO_(2) content and a weakly to strongly peraluminous character(A/CNK=1.08-1.23),consistent with S-type granites.The monzogranite has relatively high CaO,Sr,Ba,and CaO/Na_(2)O ratios but lower Rb.In contrast,the leucogranite has lower CaO,Sr,Ba,and CaO/Na_(2)O ratios but higher Rb.The similar ε_(Nd)(t)values(−9.3 to−8.4)and Pb isotopic compositions((^(206)Pb/^(204)Pb)t=18.03-19.36,(^(207)Pb/^(204)Pb)t=15.66-15.76,(^(208)Pb/^(204)Pb)t=37.97-38.55)suggest that the monzogranite formed through partial melting of crustal greywacke,while the leucogranite originated from partial melting of crustal pelite.Regional geological studies suggest that these S-type granites in Pinghe were emplaced in an active continental margin setting,associated with the westward subduction of the proto-Tethys oceanic slab.The geochemical characteristics of leucogranite are consistent with those of tungsten-tin-related granites,indicating significant metallogenic potential for W and Sn deposits.
基金funded by the Open Fund of Key Laboratory of Marine Geology and Environment,Chinese Academy of Sciences(Grant No.MGE2020KG10)the Open Fund of Key Laboratory of Submarine Geosciences,Ministry of Natural Resources(Grant No.KLSG 2208)+2 种基金the Natural Science Basic Research Program of Shaanxi(Grant No.2024JC-YBMS-227,2023-JC-QN-0287)the Postgraduate Innovation and Practice Ability Development Fund of Xi'an Shiyou University(No.YCS23113046)the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Grant No.41802128,42076219)。
文摘Tectonic activities significantly impact deep reservoir properties via sedimentary and diagenetic processes,and this is particularly true for lacustrine rift basins.The tectonic-sedimentary-diageneticreservoir system is crucial in deep reservoir exploration.This study examined the first member and upper submember of the second member of the Dongying Formation in the Bodong Low Uplift in the Bohai Bay Basin(East China),documenting the petrologic features and physical properties of reservoirs in different tectonic sub-units through integrated analysis of log and rock data,along with core observation.A mechanism for deep reservoir formation in lacustrine rift basins was developed to elucidate the sedimentary and diagenetic processes in complex tectonic settings.The results show that tectonic activities result in the occurrence of provenances in multiple directions and the existence of reservoirs at varying burial depths,as well as the significant diversity in sedimentary and diagenetic processes.The grain sizes of the sandstones,influenced by transport pathways rather than the topography of the sedimentary area,exhibit spatial complexity due to tectonic frameworks,which determine the initial pore content of reservoirs.However,the burial depth,influenced by subsequent tectonic subsidence,significantly impacts pore evolution during diagenesis.Based on the significant differences of reservoirs in slope zone,low uplift and depression zone,we establish different tectonic-diagenetic models in deep complex tectonic units of lacustrine rift basins.
基金financial support received through a grant from the Vice-President's Research Office at Bu-Ali Sina University,Iran(Grant Number 09.99)。
文摘Fractal geometry quantitatively analyzes the irregular distribution of geological features,highlighting the dynamic aspects of tectonics,seismic heterogeneity,and geological maturity.This study analyzed the active fault data along the Kuhbanan fault zone in southeastern Iran by applying the boxcounting method and observing the changes in Coulomb stress and tried to find the potential triggering parts.The entire region was divided into 16subzones with the box-counting method,and then the fractal dimension(D)in each zone was calculated.The analysis of the fractal dimension for active faults and earthquake epicenters along with the seismicity parameter(b)and their ratio in the Kuhbanan region indicates an imbalance between seismic fractals and faults.This finding suggests that the area may have the potential for future earthquakes or hidden faults.In conjunction with b-value and changes in Coulomb stress change,D-value analysis reveals intense tectonic activity and stress accumulation,particularly within the Ravar,Zarand,and Kianshahr sections.It may be considered a potential location for future earthquakes.The changes in Coulomb stress resulting from the 2005Dahuieh earthquake have also placed this region within the stress accumulation zone,potentially triggering the mentioned areas.This integrative approach,backed by historical earthquake data,highlights the impact of fault geometry and stress dynamics,offering an enhanced framework for earthquake forecasting and seismic risk mitigation applicable to other tectonically active areas within the Iranian plateau.
基金supported by Grant-in-Aid for Scientific Research on Innovative Areas Grant Number 26106002
文摘When plate tectonics began on the Earth has been long debated and here we argue this topic based on the records of Earth-Moon geology and asteroid belt to conclude that the onset of plate tectonics was during the middle Hadean（4.37-4.20 Ga）. The trigger of the initiation of plate tectonics is the ABEL Bombardment, which delivered oceanic and atmospheric components on a completely dry reductive Earth, originally comprised of enstatite chondrite-like materials. Through the accretion of volatiles, shock metamorphism processed with vaporization of both CI chondrite and supracrustal rocks at the bombarded location, and significant recrystallization went through under wet conditions, caused considerable eclogitization in the primordial continents composed of felsic upper crust of 21 km thick anorthosite, and 50 km or even thicker KREEP lower crust. Eclogitization must have yielded a powerful slab-pull force to initiate plate tectonics in the middle Hadean. Another important factor is the size of the bombardment. By creating Pacific Ocean class crater by 1000 km across impactor, rigid plate operating stagnant lid tectonics since the early Hadean was severely destroyed, and oceanic lithosphere was generated to have bi-modal lithosphere on the Earth to enable the operation of plate tectonics.Considering the importance of the ABEL Bombardment event which initiated plate tectonics including the appearance of ocean and atmosphere, we propose that the Hadean Eon can be subdivided into three periods：（1） early Hadean（4.57-4.37 Ga）,（2） middle Hadean（4.37-4.20 Ga）, and（3） late Hadean（4.20-4.00 Ga）.
基金DG ISR and DST (GoG) for providing required supportDMC Dadra and Nagar Haveli (DNH/1255) for providing financial support。
文摘The present study area,Dadra and Nagar Haveli,contains several lineaments and traces of active faults.The various aspect of the geomo rphic analysis,i.e.,stream length(SL) gradient,hypsometric integral(HI),basin shape(BS),valley floor(VF),have been applied to evaluate the relative index of active tectonics(RIAT) of the Damanganga watershed.The high and low zones of tectonic activity have been identified based on the geomorphic analysis of the watershed.After evaluation of all indices,three classes,class IIhigh(1.3 ≤RIAT <1.5),class Ⅲ-moderate(1.5 ≤RIAT <1.8),and class Ⅳ-low(1.8 ≤RIAT),have been obtained to outline the degree/gradation of comparative tectonic activities in the study area.The appraised outcome of the RIAT dispersal is also well reinforced by the geomorphic evidence in the field.The collective outcomes of geomorphic evidence,such as stream deflection and analysis of lineament,deflection of streams,and geomorphic indices,conceal that the Damanganga watershed is affected by tectonic activity.
文摘The intermontane basins are some of the critical regions to investigate the formation,growth,and development of basins during the collisional orogenesis,and in the NW Himalaya several such basins are observed to have formed during the latest phase of the ongoing collision between India and Eurasia(Burbank and Johnson,1982).
基金Climbing Project Continental Dynamics of East Asia (95-S-05) from Ministry of Science and Technology China and key project Digital Crustal and Upper Mantles Structure in Chinese Mainland from China Seismological Bureau.
文摘This paper reviews briefly the progresses made during the last four years (1999~2002) in study of seismotectonics in China, especially appraises the achievements in the fields of the crustal and upper mantles structure, the active faults and tectonic setting of large earthquakes, the crustal deformation, and the numerical simulation. Most earthquakes occurred in China belong to continental earthquakes. Therefore, Chinese seismologists pay more attention to the continental earthquakes. Based on improvements of the observation systems in China during the ninth Five-Year Plan, the studies on seismotectonics have achieved great progresses.
文摘I graduated as a geology major from the former Zhongyang (National) University in 1938 and then worked as a research scholar at Kings College in the University of London from 1949 to 1951.I was one of the pioneers in plate tectonic and terrain tectonic studies in China,devoting myself to the regional geotectonics and plate tectonics of southern China for several decades,making significant achievements in these fields.Throughout the life-long course of my academic career,I have published and coauthored some 120 research papers or monographic books at home or abroad.
基金funded by the National Basic Research Program of China(973 Program,No.2012CB416701)National Natural Science Foundation of China(Grant 40972132)was partly supported by the State Key Laboratory for Mineral Deposits Research of Nanjing University(No.2008-Ⅰ-01)
文摘During the Late Mesozoic Middle Jurassic--Late Cretaceous, basin and range tectonics and associated magmatism representative of an extensional tectonic setting was widespread in southeastern China as a result of Pacific Plate subduction. Basin tectonics consists of post-orogenic （Type I） and intra-continental extensional basins （Type II）. Type I basins developed in the piedmont and intraland during the Late Triassic to Early Jurassic, in which coarse-grained terrestrial clastic sediments were deposited. Type II basins formed during intra-continental crustal thinning and were characterized by the development of grabens and half-grabens. Graben basins were mainly generated during the Middle Jurassic and were associated with bimodal volcanism. Sediments in half-grabens are intercalated with rhyolitic tufts and lavas and are Early Cretaceous in age with a dominance of Late Cretaceous-Paleogene red beds. Ranges are composed of granitoids and bimodal volcanic rocks, A-type granites and dome-type metamorphic core complexes. The authors analyzed lithological, geochemical and geochronological features of the Late Mesozoic igneous rock assemblages and proposed some geodynamical constraints on forming the basin and range tectonics of South China. A comparison of the similarities and differences of basin and range tectonics between the eastern and western shores of the Pacific is made, and the geo- dynamical evolution model of the Southeast China Block during Late Mesozoic is discussed. Studied results suggest that the basin and range terrane within South China developed on a pre-Mesozoic folded belt was derived from a polyphase tectonic evolution mainly constrained by subduction of the western Pacific Plate since the Late Mesozoic, leading to formation of various magmatism in a back-arc exten- sional setting. Its geodynamic mechanism can compare with that of basin and range tectonics in the eastern shore of the Pacific. Differences of basin and range tectonics between both shores of the Pacific, such as mantle plume formation, scales of extensional and igneous rock assemblages and the age of basin and range tectonics, were caused mainly by the Yellowstone mantle plume in the eastern shore of the Pacific.
文摘The evolution of Earth＇s biosphere,atmosphere and hydrosphere is tied to the formation of continental crust and its subsequent movements on tectonic plates.The supercontinent cycle posits that the continental crust is periodically amalgamated into a single landmass,subsequently breaking up and dispersing into various continental fragments.Columbia is possibly the first true supercontinent,it amalgamated during the 2.0-1.7 Ga period,and collisional orogenesis resulting from its formation peaked at 1.95-1.85 Ga.Geological and palaeomagnetic evidence indicate that Columbia remained as a quasi-integral continental lid until at least 1.3 Ga.Numerous break-up attempts are evidenced by dyke swarms with a large temporal and spatial range; however,palaeomagnetic and geologic evidence suggest these attempts remained unsuccessful.Rather than dispersing into continental fragments,the Columbia supercontinent underwent only minor modifications to form the next supercontinent （Rodinia） at 1.1 -0.9 Ga; these included the transformation of external accretionary belts into the internal Grenville and equivalent collisional belts.Although Columbia provides evidence for a form of ‘lid tectonics’,modern style plate tectonics occurred on its periphery in the form of accretionary orogens.The detrital zircon and preserved geological record are compatible with an increase in the volume of continental crust during Columbia＇s lifespan; this is a consequence of the continuous accretionary processes along its margins.The quiescence in plate tectonic movements during Columbia＇s lifespan is correlative with a long period of stability in Earth＇s atmospheric and oceanic chemistry.Increased variability starting at 1.3 Ga in the environmental record coincides with the transformation of Columbia to Rodinia; thus,the link between plate tectonics and environmental change is strengthened with this interpretation of supercontinent history.
基金This research was supported by the National Nature Foundation of China （49803031, 40372084） the Seismic Scientific United Fund （95-07-0425）+3 种基金 US National Science Foundation grant EAR-0125565 ETH Forschungskommission grant TH-4/03-01 Key Subject Program of Sichuan province Grant No. SZD0408 and the Program for the Subject of Ph.D. in Higher Education Institute, Grant No.20050616004.
文摘There is a massive amount of geomorphic evidence for active tectonics in the Longmen Shan at the eastern margin of the Tibetan plateau. We have surveyed some typical geomorphic markers including the Wenchuan-Maowen, Beichuan-Yingxiu and Pengxian-Guanxian faults, terrace offsets, scarps, fault-controlled saddles, dextral shutter ridges, dextral channel offsets, graben, shatter belts, and pull-apart basins. Electron spin resonance （ESR） and thermoluminescence（TL） ages were obtained using silty sand taken from below the surface of the sediments. According to these data, we calculated the rates of thrusting and strike-slip, and the results indicate that Cenozoic tectonic shortening at the plateau margin is minor with the rate of thrusting less than 1.10 mm/a and the rate of strike-slipping less than 1.46 mm/a. The Longmen Shan is a zone of NNE-trending dextral shear with slip-dip ratio of 6：1-1.3：1. From NW to SE, the thrust component becomes smaller, whereas the strike-slip component becomes larger.
基金supported by SNSF grant IZKOZ-2_154380partly supported by SNF 200021_149252
文摘To better understand Earth's present tectonic style-plate tectonics—and how it may have evolved from single plate(stagnant lid) tectonics, it is instructive to consider how common it is among similar bodies in the Solar System. Plate tectonics is a style of convection for an active planetoid where lid fragment(plate) motions reflect sinking of dense lithosphere in subduction zones, causing upwelling of asthenosphere at divergent plate boundaries and accompanied by focused upwellings, or mantle plumes;any other tectonic style is usefully called "stagnant lid" or "fragmented lid". In 2015 humanity completed a 50+ year effort to survey the 30 largest planets, asteroids, satellites, and inner Kuiper Belt objects,which we informally call "planetoids" and use especially images of these bodies to infer their tectonic activity. The four largest planetoids are enveloped in gas and ice(Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune)and are not considered. The other 26 planetoids range in mass over 5 orders of magnitude and in diameter over 2 orders of magnitude, from massive Earth down to tiny Proteus; these bodies also range widely in density, from 1000 to 5500 kg/m^3. A gap separates 8 silicate planetoids with ρ = 3000 kg/m^3 or greater from 20 icy planetoids(including the gaseous and icy giant planets) with ρ = 2200 kg/m^3 or less. We define the "Tectonic Activity Index"(TAI), scoring each body from 0 to 3 based on evidence for recent volcanism, deformation, and resurfacing(inferred from impact crater density). Nine planetoids with TAI = 2 or greater are interpreted to be tectonically and convectively active whereas 17 with TAI <2 are inferred to be tectonically dead. We further infer that active planetoids have lithospheres or icy shells overlying asthenosphere or water/weak ice. TAI of silicate(rocky) planetoids positively correlates with their inferred Rayleigh number. We conclude that some type of stagnant lid tectonics is the dominant mode of heat loss and that plate tectonics is unusual. To make progress understanding Earth's tectonic history and the tectonic style of active exoplanets, we need to better understand the range and controls of active stagnant lid tectonics.
文摘Many geological and geochemical changes are recorded on Earth between 3 and 2 Ga.Among the more important of these are the following:(1)increasing proportion of basalts with"arc-like"mantle sources;(2)an increasing abundance of basalts derived from enriched(EM)and depleted(DM)mantle sources;(3)onset of a Great Thermal Divergence in the mantle;(4)a decrease in degree of melting of the mantle;(5)beginning of large lateral plate motions;(6)appearance of eclogite inclusions in diamonds;(7)appearance and rapid increase in frequency of collisional orogens;(8)rapid increase in the production rate of continental crust as recorded by zircon age peaks;(9)appearance of ophiolites in the geologic record,and(10)appearance of global LIP(large igneous province)events some of which correlate with global zircon age peaks.All of these changes may be tied directly or indirectly to cooling of Earth's mantle and corresponding changes in convective style and the strength of the lithosphere,and they may record the gradual onset and propagation of plate tectonics around the planet.To further understand the changes that occurred between 3 and 2 Ga,it is necessary to compare rocks,rock associations,tectonics and geochemistry during and between zircon age peaks.Geochemistry of peak and inter-peak basalts and TTGs needs to be evaluated in terms of geodynamic models that predict the existence of an episodic thermal regime between stagnant-lid and plate tectonic regimes in early planetary evolution.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (Nos.91755213,41672212,41572203)the MOST Special Fund (No.MSFGPMR02-3)+1 种基金the Opening Fund (Nos.GPMR201607,201701)the State Key Laboratory of Geological Processes and Mineral Resources,China University of Geosciences (Wuhan)
文摘Plate tectonics describes the horizontal motion of rigid lithospheric plates away from midoceanic ridges and parallel to transforms, towards deep-sea trenches, where the oceanic lithosphere is subducted into the mantle. This process is the surface expression of modern-day heat loss from Earth. One of the biggest questions in Geosciences today is ＂when did plate tectonics begin on Earth＂ with a wide range of theories based on an equally diverse set of constraints from geology, geochemistry, numerical modeling, or pure speculation. In this contribution, we turn the coin over and ask ＂when was the last appearance in the geological record for which there is proof that plate tectonics did not operate on the planet as it does today＂. We apply the laws of uniformitarianism to the rock record to ask how far back in time is the geologic record consistent with presently-operating kinematics of plate motion, before which some other mechanisms of planetary heat loss may have been in operation. Some have suggested that evidence shows that there was no plate tectonics before 800 Ma ago, others sometime before 1.8–2.7 Ga, or before 2.7 Ga. Still others recognize evidence for plate tectonics as early as 3.0 Ga, 3.3–3.5 Ga, the age of the oldest rocks, or in the Hadean before 4.3 Ga. A key undiscussed question is： why is there such a diversity of opinion about the age at which plate tectonics can be shown to not have operated, and what criteria are the different research groups using to define plate tectonics, and to recognize evidence of plate tectonics in very old rocks？ Here, we present and evaluate data from the rock record, constrained by relevant geochemical-isotopic data, and conclude that the evidence shows indubitably that plate tectonics has been operating at least since the formation of the oldest rocks, albeit with some differences in processes, compositions, and products in earlier times of higher heat generation and mantle temperature, weaker oceanic lithosphere, hotter subduction zones caused by more slab-melt generation, and under different biological and atmospheric conditions.
文摘This paper gives a synthetic view on the Jurassic tectonics of North China, with an attempt to propose a framework for the stepwise tectonic evolution history. Jurassic sedimentation, deformation and magmatism in North China have been divided into three stages. The earliest Jurassic is marked by a period of magmatism quiescence （in 205-190 Ma） and regional uplift, which are considered to be the continuation of the “Indosinian movement” characterized by continent-continent collision between the North and South China blocks. The Early to Middle Jurassic （in 190-170 Ma） was predominated by weak lithospheric extension expressed by mantle-derived plutonism and volcanism along the Yanshan belt and alongside the Tan-Lu fault zone, normal faulting and graben formation along the Yinshan- Yanshan tectonic belt, depression and resuming of coal-bearing sedimentation in vast regions of the North China block （NCB）. The Middle to Late Jurassic stage started at 165y.5 Ma and ended up before 136 Ma; it was dominated by intensive intraplate deformation resulting from multi-directional compressions. Two major deformation events have been identified. One is marked by stratigraphic unconformity beneath the thick Upper Jurassic molasic series in the foreland zones of the western Ordos thrust-fold belt and along the Yinshan-Yanshan belt; it was predated 160 Ma. The other one is indicated by stratigraphic unconformity at the base of the Lower Cretaceous and predated 135 Ma. During this last stage, two latitudinal tectonic belts, the Yinshan-Yanshan belt in the north and the Qinling-Dabie belt in the south, and the western margin of the Ordos basin were all activated by thrusting; the NCB itself was deformed by the NE to NNE-trending structural system involving thrusting, associated folding and sinistral strike-slip faulting, which were spatially partitioned. Foliated S-type granitic plutons aged 160-150 Ma were massively emplaced in the Jiao-Liao massif east of the Tan-Lu fault zone and indicate important crustal thickening in this part of the NCB. The Jurassic deformation patterns, different tectonic systems and multi-directional contractions in North China recorded far-field effects of synchronous convergences, toward the East Asian continent, of three different plates, the Siberian plate in the north, the paleo-Pacific oceanic plate in the east and the Lhasa block in the southwest. This Middle to Late Jurassic intraplate orogenesis and pervasive shortening deformation preceded lithospheric attenuation and thinning in East China, which most possibly started by the Early Cretaceous around 135 Ma.
