Chapter 12: Problem 1

How are the basic features of the Wopmay orogen typical of orogenic belts in general?

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The Wopmay Orogen, an orogenic belt in northwest Canada, shares typical characteristics of orogenic belts in general, including tectonic convergence, magmatism, metamorphism, and deformation. Its formation involves the collision of two continental blocks due to the subduction of oceanic crust, leading to crustal shortening and thickening. Magmatism in the Wopmay Orogen results in the formation of igneous rocks, while high pressures and temperatures cause metamorphism, transforming pre-existing rocks into metamorphic rocks. Deformation events lead to folding, faulting, and shearing of rocks, creating complex structures characteristic of orogenic belts.

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Introduction to Wopmay Orogen

The Wopmay Orogen is an orogenic belt located in northwest Canada, formed during the Proterozoic Eon. It extends for about 1000 km and is characterized by various tectonic processes, such as magmatism, metamorphism, and deformation, which have played a role in its formation.

Orogenic Belt Features

Orogenic belts (or mountain-building belts) are linear regions on Earth's crust where tectonic processes cause deformation, uplift, and the formation of various rock types. The essential features of an orogenic belt include convergence of tectonic plates, deep crustal melting, formation of magmatic rocks, metamorphism, and deformation. Orogenic belts typically form at converging plate boundaries where two or more tectonic plates collide, forming mountain ranges and triggering numerous geological processes.

Tectonic Convergence

The Wopmay Orogen, like other orogenic belts, was formed due to tectonic convergence. During the formation process, the oceanic crust subducted below the continental crust, resulting in the collision of two continental blocks. This led to crustal shortening, thickening, and the eventual formation of the Wopmay Orogen.

Magmatism

Magmatism is a common feature of orogenic belts, including the Wopmay Orogen. The subduction of oceanic crust underneath continental crust induces partial melting of the mantle wedge, leading to the formation of magmas that rise through the crust. These magmas can cool to form different types of igneous rocks, such as granites and volcanic rocks, which are widespread in the Wopmay Orogen.

Metamorphism

During the formation of orogenic belts, metamorphism plays a significant role in altering the pre-existing rocks. As the Wopmay Orogen developed, the high pressures and temperatures associated with tectonic processes led to the transformation of pre-existing rocks into metamorphic rocks, such as schists, gneisses, and marbles. This type of metamorphism is typical in many orogenic belts.

Deformation

Orogenic belts are characterized by deformation of the crust due to tectonic processes. In the Wopmay Orogen, deformation events led to folding, faulting, and shearing of rocks, creating complex structures that are typical of orogenic belts. In conclusion, the basic features of the Wopmay Orogen are typical of orogenic belts in general, as they exhibit the common characteristics of tectonic convergence, magmatism, metamorphism, and deformation. These processes contribute to the formation and evolution of orogenic belts and are responsible for the unique geological features observed in these regions.

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How are the basic features of the Wopmay orogen typical of orogenic belts in general?

Short Answer

Step by step solution

Introduction to Wopmay Orogen

Orogenic Belt Features

Tectonic Convergence

Magmatism

Metamorphism

Deformation

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