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A method for finite plate reconstructions, with applications to Pacific‐Nazca Plate evolution
Author(s) -
Pilger Rex H.
Publication year - 1978
Publication title -
geophysical research letters
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 2.007
H-Index - 273
eISSN - 1944-8007
pISSN - 0094-8276
DOI - 10.1029/gl005i006p00469
Subject(s) - margin (machine learning) , geology , magnetic anomaly , fracture zone , anomaly (physics) , geodesy , convergence (economics) , geometry , mathematics , geophysics , computer science , physics , machine learning , economic growth , economics , condensed matter physics
As an alternative to trial‐and‐error methods, a least‐squares technique for derivation of finite plate reconstructions has been developed. The method involves minimization of the summed distances squared separating data sets on corresponding former plate margin segments as a function of the reconstruction (rotation) parameters. Each data value consists of the distance between a point on one former plate margin (as defined by magnetic anomalies and fracture zones, for example) and the chord formed by the nearest two points on the corresponding, rotated former plate margin. The individual distance values are calculated in sets, corresponding to individual anomaly or fracture zone segments, to reduce the likelihood of convergence to a local minimum. This technique is illustrated by derivation of plate reconstructions for anomalies 7 through 13 and 16 in the east central Pacific Ocean, based on published identifications.