Shallow Seismic Structure of the Ocean Crust and its Correlation with Seafloor Lithologies on the Kane Megamullion, Mid-Atlantic Ridge 23 degrees 20'-23 degrees 40' N

Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, Woods Hole MA

Investigators

Abstract

Using existing multichannel seismic data and previously acquired lithologic samples across the Kane Megamullion on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, researchers will constrain oceanic crustal structure, the degree of serpentinization and gabbro plutonism, and the scale of crustal heterogeneities at this feature. The Kane Megamullion has been proposed as a potential IODP drilling target for the study of the lower crust that is thought to be exposed at such large-scale, detachment-draped features proximal to many of the mid-ocean ridges. The proposed research, which will involve high-resolution travel-time tomography, gravity modeling, and correlation of features within a Geographic Information System (GIS), will not only provide new insights into the structure of one of the best surveyed megamullions, but will also serve to identify the details of potential drilling sites on the feature. Broader impacts include support for a scientist who is early in his professional career, support for a graduate student and undergraduate summer student, and expansion of the GIS capabilities at WHOI. The project also serves IODP goals related to understanding oceanic crust.