Global Analysis of the Shallow Geology of Large-Scale Ocean Slopes.
Abstract
Large-scale ocean slopes have continental-slope dimensions (e.g., slope inclinations exceeding 1 degree for relief of 2000 m). Approximately 40% are related to continental margins, 40% to features with oceanic crust, and 20% to unknown origins or overlap with the first two groups. Of the slopes, 75% are laterally continuous (lateral slopes), and the remaining 25% form the sides of conical-shaped features. Groupings and ranges have been established for the following lateral slope parameters: ocean section, top boundary province, bottom boundary province, relief, slope angle, surface-sediment grain size, plate-tectonic association, shape, outcrop type in the upper 200 m, percent of slope with outcrop, sediment thickness, and basement type. Mapping and computer adaption of parameter compilations reveal global data distributions, global averages, parameter relationships, and applied classification methods. Global averages are 3.8 degrees for slope angle, 3035 m for relief, and 38% for percent of slope with outcrop. Strongest relationships occur among top boundary province, bottom boundary province, plate-tectonic association, and surface-sediment type. Preferred clustering of parameter relationships reveal four model groups for lateral slopes.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 01, 1983
- Accession Number
- ADA128208
Entities
People
- J. E. Matthews
- James Andrew Green