Abstract: Geodynamics and Hydrocarbons

By

A. W. Bally

Using plate tectonics as a working hypothesis the surface of the earth can be usefully subdivided as follows:

(1) The Cenozoic-Mesozoic extensional scar of the oceans;

(2) The compressional equivalent: the Cenozoic- Mesozoic compressional C-megasutures of the world, which are mainly limited by A-subduction zones which dispose of continental (sialic) lithosphere and B-subduction zones which dispose of oceanic (simatic) lithosphere;

(3) The combined Paleozoic foldbelts represent the Paleozoic C-megasuture;

(4) The Precambrian foldbelts of the world represent Precambrian C-megasutures.

This tectonic framework allows consistent basin classification with 12 main types belonging to three families:

(1) Basins located within rigid lithosphere;

(2) Perisutural basins on rigid lithosphere associated with formation of adjacent C-megasuture;

(3) Episutural basins located and contained with C-megasuture.

The proposed classification allows an overview leading to asking focused questions when confronted with a relatively unexplored basin. It does not, however, allow its use for potential reserve forecasts leaning on analog experience or any other of the currently used methods for estimating potential reserves of large regions.

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