Model for the formation of large, transtensional basins in zones of tectonic escape

Research Article| March 01, 1997 Model for the formation of large, transtensional basins in zones of tectonic escape Paul Mann Paul Mann 1Institute for Geophysics, University of Texas at Austin, 8701 North Mopac Expressway, Austin, Texas 78759-8397 Search for other works by this author on: GSW Google Scholar Geology (1997) 25 (3): 211–214. https://doi.org/10.1130/0091-7613(1997)025<0211:MFTFOL>2.3.CO;2 Article history first online: 02 Jun 2017 Cite View This Citation Add to Citation Manager Share Icon Share Facebook Twitter LinkedIn MailTo Tools Icon Tools Get Permissions Search Site Citation Paul Mann; Model for the formation of large, transtensional basins in zones of tectonic escape. Geology 1997;; 25 (3): 211–214. doi: https://doi.org/10.1130/0091-7613(1997)025<0211:MFTFOL>2.3.CO;2 Download citation file: Ris (Zotero) Refmanager EasyBib Bookends Mendeley Papers EndNote RefWorks BibTex toolbar search Search Dropdown Menu toolbar search search input Search input auto suggest filter your search All ContentBy SocietyGeology Search Advanced Search Abstract "Tectonic escape" is strike-slip-dominated motion of colliding continental or arc crust in the direction of subductable oceanic crust. I describe four examples of large transtensional basins in Cenozoic zones of tectonic escape and propose that these basins formed along newly formed, transtensional faults formed between the collided and escaping parts of the plate. The reoriented direction of the escaping plate, split along the new transtensional fault zone, is determined by the presence of a "free face," or subductable oceanic crust. Continued subduction toward the free face is driven by the force of gravity acting on dense oceanic crust ("slab pull"). The four examples presented here show that a variety of transtensional deformational styles can be generated within this specific type of divergent tectonic setting. These transtensional styles include pull-apart basins at fault stepovers, more asymmetrical, rift-like basins thought to be formed under conditions of fault-normal extensional stresses, and single or multiple short spreading ridges. Transtensional styles may be controlled more by the type and age of crust present than the angle of reorientation of the escaping plate. This content is PDF only. Please click on the PDF icon to access. First Page Preview Close Modal You do not have access to this content, please speak to your institutional administrator if you feel you should have access.