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The AAPG/Datapages Combined Publications Database
Houston Geological Society Bulletin
Abstract
Abstract: Continental Drift in Space and Time
By
ESSA, Atlantic Oceanographic & Meteorological Labs, 901 South Miami Avenue,
Miami, Florida, 33130
Computerized matching of 1,000-fm isobaths has resulted in a satisfying continental
drift reconstruction of Pangaea, complemented by a closing of the Atlantic and Indian
rift oceans as of -200 m.y. (mid-Triassic). A series of maps is offered which displays
the drift dispersion of the continents at the end of the Triassic, Jurassic, Cretaceous,
and Cenozoic. Paleomagnetics (both polar and reversal methods) are used as guides as
well as some assumed rules of sea floor spreading and plate tectonics. Absolute geographic
coordinates are inferred by using the Walvis "hot spot" as a non-drifting fix.
Sizeable overlaps and underlaps remain in the Pangaea reconstruction which must
be obviated before it is acceptable. A case in point is the Bahama platform, which
overlaps onto Africa when the North Atlantic is closed. This projection from the North
American craton appears to have been laid down on oceanic crust in a small "window"
opened with the initial breakup of Laurasia. Shallow-water carbonates were subsequently
deposited on the subsiding clastic infill after it was stranded on the North
American plate by further drifting.
Detailed understanding of the mechanics breakup and of the mismatches are of
much interest for off-shore oil exploration. End_of_Record - Last_Page 3---------------