Geological applicability of critical-wedge thrust-belt models

Research Article| December 01, 1987 Geological applicability of critical-wedge thrust-belt models NICHOLAS B. WOODWARD NICHOLAS B. WOODWARD 1Department of Geological Sciences, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Tennessee 37996-1410 Search for other works by this author on: GSW Google Scholar Author and Article Information NICHOLAS B. WOODWARD 1Department of Geological Sciences, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Tennessee 37996-1410 Publisher: Geological Society of America First Online: 01 Jun 2017 Online ISSN: 1943-2674 Print ISSN: 0016-7606 Geological Society of America GSA Bulletin (1987) 99 (6): 827–832. https://doi.org/10.1130/0016-7606(1987)99<827:GAOCTM>2.0.CO;2 Article history First Online: 01 Jun 2017 Cite View This Citation Add to Citation Manager Share Icon Share Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Email Permissions Search Site Citation NICHOLAS B. WOODWARD; Geological applicability of critical-wedge thrust-belt models. GSA Bulletin 1987;; 99 (6): 827–832. doi: https://doi.org/10.1130/0016-7606(1987)99<827:GAOCTM>2.0.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 SocietyGSA Bulletin Search Advanced Search Abstract Critical-wedge models for foreland thrust belts, although popular paradigms for thrust mechanics, also predict definite progressive changes within the orogenic belt. The most important constraint on critical-wedge models is the need for deformation of the interior of the wedge when new sheets are accreted to its front. Well-dated foreland thrust belts have sequential formation of new thrust sheets in the front of the belt. Thus, they also require continued superimposed deformation within the wedge. Geologic mapping and fabric studies provide evidence of only minor later intra-wedge shortening, severely reducing the acceptability of an accreting critically tapered wedge model. To apply critically tapered wedge models to foreland fold-and-thrust belts, one must relax requirements for constant wedge strengths and basal sliding laws. The wedge will need to strengthen after initial thrust emplacement, and the fault zones will probably need to progressively weaken. It is most likely that critical-wedge models which apply well to accretionary wedges do not apply in simple ways to foreland fold-and-thrust belts. 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.