Abstract
ABSTRACT The NW Iberian continental margin has a complex structure, resulting from the succession of several rifting episodes close to a ridge triple junction, and a superimposed partial tectonic inversion stage. The wide-ranging physiography matches the diverse tectonic deformation domains related to its evolution. Each deformation domain has a distinctive gravity signal, so the detailed Bouguer anomaly map presented here is a good first approach to the regional study of the whole margin. Moreover, as the presented chart is a complete Bouguer anomaly map (including terrain corrections), its analysis and interpretation can be done in terms of density, geometry and depth variations below the seafloor. This map is mainly based on the dataset obtained during seven one-month surveys carried out in the frame of the Spanish Economic Exclusive Zone project, and also includes two 2 + 3/4D density models illustrating the deep structure of the margin.
Highlights
The use of the potential field methods for the analysis of the structure and geodynamics of the Earth’s interior is widespread (e.g. Hinze, Von Frese, & Saad, 2013 and references therein)
The Bouguer anomaly map of the NW Iberian continental margin and the adjacent abyssal plains is a composite sheet made of three maps, and two 2 + 3/4D gravity models representative of the deep structure of the margin
The new Bouguer anomaly map of the NW Iberian continental margin and the adjacent abyssal plains presented here is built upon an improved gravity database, bringing together marine, on land, and satellite-derived gravity measurements
Summary
The use of the potential field methods for the analysis of the structure and geodynamics of the Earth’s interior is widespread (e.g. Hinze, Von Frese, & Saad, 2013 and references therein). Gravity anomalies allow the discrimination between continental and oceanic crustal domains, and can be used as a first approach to the location of basins with potential hydrocarbon reservoirs and the identification of prospective ore deposits. Further advantage of this method is that it allows the construction of 2D and 3D density models of the geometry and lateral density variations in the subsurface, properly constrained by other geophysical information like seismic data, geological mapping or wells. Druet et al (2018) made a detailed gravimetric analysis from the Bouguer anomaly data of the NW Iberian margin, including spectral analysis, Bouguer anomaly grid filtering, and gravity modeling
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