Constraints upon models of greenstone belt evolution by gravity modelling,Birch-Uchi greenstone belt,northern Ontario |
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| Authors: | VK Gupta PC Thurston TH Dusanowskyj |
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| Institution: | Ontario Geological Survey, 77 Grenville Street, Toronto, Ont. M5S 1B3 Canada |
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| Abstract: | Eight two-dimensional gravity models, incorporating most of the major hypotheses proposed for the development of Precambrian greenstone belts, are computed. Maximum use is made of geological and geophysical constraints, in an attempt to explain the disparity between the 11 000 m measured stratigraphic thickness and the maximum 5000 m interpreted vertical extent of a portion of the Birch-Uchi metavolcanic-metasedimentary belt.The two-dimensional modelling concentrates on an east-trending profile across a dominantly volcanic portion of the belt comprising three superposed basalt to rhyolite cycles. It is supplemented by a computed second vertical derivative map of the gravity field.Metamorphic and geophysical considerations show simple, isoclinal, parallel folding of the mapped stratigraphic thickness to be unacceptable. Proposed mechanisms which could explain the shallow interpreted vertical extent are a density gradient, a granite root, more complex folding of the belt and restriction of the metavolcanic basin. Taken individually, however, none of these mechanisms is entirely adequate.The model which best fits the gravity and geological data suggests that the shallow vertical extent is the result of both magmatic stoping by a subjacent granitic magma chamber during the caldera stage of cycle III volcanism and partial melting of the basaltic rocks during earlier cycles of volcanism. |
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