Collaborative Research: Deep Crustal Processes and the Growth, Stabilization, and Exhumation of the Western Canadian Shield

Massachusetts Institute Of Technology, Cambridge MA

Investigators

Abstract

0001152 Williams 0001131 Bowring The presence of high-pressure rocks at the surface implies considerable crustal-scale tectonism, however the processes by which this occurs during the evolution of a continental shield is not well understood. This project will examine the Snowbird tectonic zone of the western Canadian Shield to test two models for the age and tectonic scenario responsible. The work also involves application and refinement of a new electron microproble age mapping and dating technique that may prove to be widely applicable to studies of lower crustal rocks and metamorphosed rocks in general.