Seafloor Asymmetry in the Atlantic Ocean
Abstract
Measurements of seafloor asymmetry at about 360000 pairs of conjugate points along 1250 profiles across the mid-Atlantic Ridge (MAR) provide new constraints on models for the upwelling of the buoyant asthenosphere. The sign and amplitude of the asymmetry vary systematically and are functions of the distance between the spreading center and the location of the inferred location of maximum regional buoyancy (LMRB) in the asthenosphere. The LMRB is a smooth line derived from the observed asymmetry and is more centered at the regional topographic high than the spreading center. These observations are best explained by active upwelling of the underlying buoyant asthenosphere rather than by pressure-release melting.
Recommended Citation
S. S. Gao and K. H. Liu, "Seafloor Asymmetry in the Atlantic Ocean," Journal of Ocean University of China (English Edition), vol. 3, no. 2, pp. 191 - 194, Springer Verlag, Oct 2004.
The definitive version is available at https://doi.org/10.1007/s11802-004-0034-7
Department(s)
Geosciences and Geological and Petroleum Engineering
Keywords and Phrases
Atlantic Ocean; Mid-Ocean Ridges; Seafloor Asymmetry; Seafloor Topography
Geographic Coverage
Atlantic Ocean
International Standard Serial Number (ISSN)
1672-5182
Document Type
Article - Journal
Document Version
Citation
File Type
text
Language(s)
English
Rights
© 2004 Springer Verlag, All rights reserved.
Publication Date
01 Oct 2004
