Abstract
Analysis of the transition from the NE Yermak Plateau into the oceanic Eurasian Basin sheds light on the Paleocene formation of this Arctic basin. Newly acquired multichannel seismic data with a 3600 m long streamer shot during ice-free conditions enables the interpretation of crustal structures. Evidence is provided that no major compressional deformation affected the NE Yermak Plateau. The seismic data reveal that the margin is around 80 km wide and consists of rotated fault blocks, major listric normal faults, and half-grabens filled with syn-rift sediments. Taking into account published magnetic and gravimetric data, this setting is interpreted as a rifted continental margin, implying that the NE Yermak Plateau is of continental origin. The transition from the Yermak Plateau to the oceanic Eurasian Basin might be located at a prominent basement high, probably formed by exhumed mantle. In contrast to the Yermak Plateau margin, the North Barents Sea continental margin shows a steep continental slope with a relatively abrupt transition to the oceanic domain. Based on one composite seismic line, it is speculated that the initial opening direction of the Eurasian Basin in the Arctic Ocean was highly oblique to the present day seafloor spreading direction.
Highlights
Two major oceanic basins are found in the Arctic Ocean (Figure 1)
The Lomonosov Ridge previously might have formed a continuous structure with the Yermak Plateau (Figure 1) but the crustal nature of this major submarine plateau at the North Barents Sea continental margin is under debate (Jackson et al, 1984; Jokat et al, 2008; Geissler et al, 2011)
The reflection seismic data presented here consist of a composite section running for about 125 km SW-NE from the northeastern Yermak Plateau into the Nansen Basin (BGR13-207), and for about 255 km NW-SE from the Nansen Basin to the North Barents Sea continental margin (BGR13-208) (Figure 1)
Summary
Two major oceanic basins are found in the Arctic Ocean (Figure 1). While the origin and evolution of the Amerasian Basin is still under discussion, the general evolution of the Eurasian Basin is much better known (e.g., Lawver et al, 2011; Shephard et al, 2013). The Lomonosov Ridge previously might have formed a continuous structure with the Yermak Plateau (Figure 1) but the crustal nature of this major submarine plateau at the North Barents Sea continental margin is under debate (Jackson et al, 1984; Jokat et al, 2008; Geissler et al, 2011). This comes along with a considerable dispute, about the earliest, Paleocene evolution of the Eurasian Basin. An episode of shear or oblique extension has been suggested before breakup to explain the observed narrow symmetric conjugate margins in the Eurasia Basin (Minakov et al, 2012, 2013)
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary 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.
