Abstract
Physical modelling and geodynamic analysis have been carried out concerning the formation and evolution of overlapping spreading centers (OSCs) with fast spreading rates. Crust and underlying magma chamber were modelled by (solidified and melted respectively) a composite system composed of mineral oils, solid hydrocarbons and surface-active substances. Regularities of the model crust quasi-brittle failure under tension were investigated. Obtained results permit to conclude that there are two classes of OSCs: small ones with widths d < 4–6 km and large ones with d > 4–6 km, differing in structure, formation and mechanism of their evolution. Small OSCs have a short “life”, of the order of 10 3–10 4 years, controlled by periodic jumps of spreading centers (tectonic cycles). Large OSCs exist for millions of years and represent quasi-stationary structures. A formation and evolution model of OSCs is proposed on the basis of the experimental results.
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