Mechanism of progressive broad deformation from oceanic transform valley to off-transform faulting and rifting

Abstract

Oceanic transform faults (TFs) are commonly viewed as single, narrow strike-slip seismic faults that offset two mid-ocean ridge segments. However, broad zones of complex deformation are ubiquitous at TFs. Here, we propose a new conceptual model for the progressive deformation within broad zones at oceanic TFs through detailed morphological, seismic, and stress analyses. We argue that, under across-transform extension due to a change in plate motion, plate deformation occurs first along high-angle transtensional faults (TTFs) within the transform valleys. Off-transform normal faults (ONFs) form when across-transform deviatoric extensional stresses exceed the yield strength of the adjacent oceanic lithosphere. With further extension, these normal faults can develop into off-transform rift zones (ORZs), some of which can further develop into transform plate boundaries. We illustrate that such progressive complex deformation is an inherent feature of oceanic TFs. The new conceptual model provides a unifying theory to explain the observed broad deformation at global transform systems.