Investigating Volcanism, Tectonism and the Formation of Crustal Layer 2A on the East Pacific Rise Crestal Plateau: Ongoing Analyses of Digital Photographic Data

University Of Hawaii, Honolulu

Investigators

Abstract

This project will analyze 31,000 video-camera images taken during several cruises in the region of 9 degrees N on the East Pacific Rise. The project will map lava flow morphology and distribution and assess the relation between tectonic and magmatic processes via the distribution of fractures and faults. Specific topics to be addressed include (1) the role of channels in transporting axial lavas downslope, contributing to the thickening of crustal Layer 2A, (2) the generation of Pillow ridges on the eastern flank, (3) the effect of effusion rate and seafloor topography upon flow morphology and (4) the relation of fault and fissure density to topography, volcanic processes and crustal architecture.