Abstract
The plate-tectonic theory postulates that mountain ranges are formed as a result of plate-to-plate collisions, where the lithosphere plates remain intact and have been subducted. Geophysical investigations in the Alps revealed the velocity structure in the earth's crust, with low velocity channels at or near the Moho. There is also an absence of deep-seated earthquakes, implying the absence of a Benioff Zone. These facts led to the conclusion that the crustal layers were detached from the underlying mantle of lithospheric plates during orogenic deformations. The theory of thin-skinned plate tectonics was dismissed as a crazy idea in the late 1970s. The Swiss National Research Programme 20 (NRP 20) carried out a series of seismic traverses across the Swiss Alps. All major traverses in the east, west, and south show prominent Moho reflections and strong intracrustal energy returns. Interpretations by NRP 20 clearly indicate Moho detachment as well as imbrications of crustal slices. The postulate of thin-skinned plate tectonics is thus no longer a crazy idea.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
