Moho and basement configuration beneath McMurdo Sound

• Main Author: Erickson, Joseph M.
• Other Authors: McGinnis, Lyle David, Department of Geology
• Format: Thesis
• Language: English
• Published: Northern Illinois University 1983
• Subjects: Geology > Antarctica > McMurdo Sound; McMurdo Sound; Transantarctic Mountains; Antarc*; Antarctica
• Online Access: https://commons.lib.niu.edu/handle/10843/18334

Bibliography: pages 45-50. Results of several reversed refraction profiles and a gravity profile were used in the crustal modelling beneath McMurdo Sound. A depth to the Moho surface of 21 km was calculated from a 195.7 km refraction profile shot subparallel to the strike of the Transantarctic Mountains. Gravity modelling shows the subducted Moho surface to descend beneath the Transantarctic Mountains. Refraction data were used to construct a basement structure map, isopach maps of various sedimentary layers, and two geologic profiles. Trough-like depressions in the basement surface and overlying sediment layer surfaces are found to extend from the major valleys of the Dry Valley system, suggesting similar origins. Formation of these linear depressions were probably the result of block faulting and/or glacial scour. Thickening of the sedimentary layer*s overlying layer surface depressions may indicate the formation of these depressions before the infilling of sediments. M.S. (Master of Science)