Over 300 km of geological boundary is traced by an abrupt increase in initial 87Sr/86Sr isotope ratios. The dataset describes the location, age, and tectonic significance of the Western Idaho Suture Zone, a major crustal boundary in the northwestern United States. It was summarized by the USGS from research on pluton geochemistry and geochronology.
Use Cases
- Mapping the suture zone boundary using the abrupt west-to-east increase in initial 87Sr/86Sr ratios.
- Analyzing patterns of thermal loss and deformation by correlating K-Ar and 40Ar/39Ar apparent ages with proximity to the WISZ.
- Studying crustal composition variations by examining Sr, Nd, and O isotope ratios and major/trace element data across the zone.
- Modeling the timing of major crustal movements using age constraints from 135 Ma to 74 Ma.
Strengths
- Spatial trace of the suture zone is defined for over 300 km.
- Multiple isotopic systems are analyzed (Sr, Nd, O).
- Temporal constraints for deformation are provided, spanning from about 135 Ma to 74 Ma.
Limitations
- Specific row count, column names, and sample data are unavailable.
- Geographic coverage is limited to a specific zone in the northwestern U.S.
- The original data collection methodology and granularity are not detailed.
Provenance
- Source
- CEOS_EXTRA, with summary provided by the USGS.
- Collection Method
- Research involving geochemical and geochronological analysis of Mesozoic plutons.
- Time Range
- Deformation from approximately 135 Ma to 74 Ma (Cretaceous to Late Cretaceous).
- Geography
- Western Idaho Suture Zone, spanning over 300 km from eastern Washington to central Idaho, USA.