Ophiolites in Earth History


Book Description

The 32 papers in this volume examine the mode and nature of igneous, metamorphic, tectonic, sedimentological, and biological processes associated with the evolution of oceanic crust in different tectonic settings in Earth history as revealed in various ophiolites and ophiolite belts around the world, and the geodynamic significance of these ophiolites in the evolution of different orogenic systems. Divided into six thematic sections, the book presents a wealth of new data and syntheses from mainly Phanerozoic ophiolites around the world.










Ophiolites and Oceanic Crust


Book Description

The proceedings from the September 1998 conference in Marshall, California contain 39 papers on the following topics: ophiolites, ocean crust, and global tectonics; oceanic lower crust and upper mantle; structure and physical properties of upper oceanic crust; hydrothermal processes; Pacific Rim ophiolites; and, Ophiolites from Iapetus, Rheic-Pleionic, Neotethyan, and Indian Oceans. Contributors include scientists with backgrounds in structural geology, tectonics, geophysics, petrology, and geochemistry. Numerous black and white illustrations (and one in color) are included. Annotation copyrighted by Book News Inc., Portland, OR




Links Between Geological Processes, Microbial Activities & Evolution of Life


Book Description

Microbial systems in extreme environments and in the deep biosphere may be analogous to potential life on other planetary bodies and hence may be used to investigate the possibilities of extraterrestrial life. This book examines the mode and nature of links between geological processes and microbial activities and their significance for the origin and evolution of life on the Earth and possibly on other planets. This is a truly interdisciplinary science with societal relevance.




The Geology of Iran: Tectonic, Magmatism and Metamorphism


Book Description

This book describes the geological setting of Iran throughout geological history, referring to paleogeography and general geodynamics. Also, all structural units, faults, tectonic phases and orogeny occurred in the geology of Iran have been evaluated. Magmatic and metamorphic rocks along with ophiolitic complexes have extensive outcrops in Iran, and these rocks with Precambrian age constitute its basement. Study and identification of such rocks not only throws light on the geodynamic issues of Iran but also helps in recognition of the mode of formation and evolution of the sedimentary basins located within various structural divisions of the country. Moreover, the majority of metallic and non-metallic mineral deposits are associated either directly or indirectly with magmatic, and at time metamorphic, rocks. In the Magmatism and Metamorphism parts, it is tried to thoroughly consider the various aspects of the igneous rocks, whether intrusive, extrusive or young volcanoes, from the point of view of petrography, geochemistry and geodynamics. In addition, the major intrusive bodies of Iran have been presented along with their petrologic and chronologic specifications in tables, mentioning the bibliographic resources.




Tectonic Development of the Eastern Mediterranean Region


Book Description

The Eastern Mediterranean region is a classic area for the study of tectonic processes and settings related to the development of the Tethyan orogenic belt. The present set of research and synthesis papers by earth scientists from countries in this region and others provides an up-to-date, interdisciplinary overview of the tectonic development of the Eastern Mediterranean region from Precambrian to Recent. Key topics include continental rifting, ophiolite genesis and emplacement, continental collision, extensional tectonics, crustal exhumation and intra-plate deformation (e.g. active faulting). Alternative tectonic reconstructions of the Tethyan orogen are presented and discussed, with important implications for other regions of the world. The book will be an essential source of information and interpretation for academic researchers (geologists and geophysicists), advanced undergraduates and also for industry professionals, including those concerned with hydrocarbons, minerals and geological hazards (e.g. earthquakes).