Backarc rifting and the formation of backarc basins along the West Pacific Margin
Loading...
Date
1995-12
Authors
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
The Ohio State University
Abstract
Backarc rifting and the marginal basins formed by this rifting at convergent plate margins are the product of a combination of two processes: 1) the splitting of the volcanic arc complex due to the extensional stresses inflicted by abrasive coupling between the edge of the forearc and the subducting oceanic plate, and 2) the upwelling of magma into this newly formed split. Although there is much debate over the source of this magma, and over many other specific details of backarc basin formation, modem scientific methods have allowed researchers to gather increasingly detailed data concerning the geophysical, petrological and structural makeup of these regions. These predominantly marine basins are typically formed adjacent to volcanic island arcs, opposite their trenches. Their geographic distribution appears to be linked to the so-called "Ring of Fire", placing them alongside the circum-Pacific island arcs, predominantly on the western margins of the Pacific Ocean.