Geodynamic Models

PrefaceChapter 1. Geonomy and Geodynamics Introduction The Meaning of Scientific Models The Fabric of Geonomy Computerization and Mathematization in Geonomy The Ripening of some Geodynamic Ideas ReferencesChapter 2. The Evolution of the Atlantic Mega-Undation (Causing the American Continental Drift) General Principles The Undations of the Earth's Surface Classification of the Undations Growth and Decline of Mega-Undations Geodynamic Reactions to Mega-Undations The Development of the Atlantic Mega-Undation The Atlantic Mega-Undation (Sensu Lato) Phase II: The North Atlantic Mega-Undation Phase III: The Thulean Mega-Undation Phase IV: The Arctic Mega-Undation Conclusion ReferencesChapter 3. The Evolution of the Indian Ocean Mega-Undation (Causing the Indico-Fugal Spreading of Gondwana Fragments) Elaboration of the Geomechanical Model Newtonian and Andradean Viscosity Geomechanic Facts Provided by Reliable fault-Plane Solutions The Shifting Crests of Mega-Undations Stages of Evolution of Mega-Undations The Development of the Indian Ocean Mega-Undation The i0 Phase The iI Phase The pII Phase The iII Phase The iIII Phase; α Centre The iIII Phase; β Centre The iIII Phase; γ Centre The iIII Phase; δ Centre Conclusion ReferencesChapter 4. Mega-Undations: A New Model for the Earth's Evolution Introduction The Three Main Phases of the Earth's Evolution Phase I Phase II Phase III The Relativistic Concept of Geodynamic Evolution The Alpine Cycle of Orogeny The Present Structural Features of the Earth Conclusion ReferencesChapter 5. The Importance of the Geonomics Dimensions for Geodynamic Concepts Introduction The Parameter of Length in Geonomy The Parameter of Time in Geonomy The Physical and Chemical Character of the Earth's "Stockwerke" A Model of the Chain Reactions of the Earth's Evolution G Zone F Zone E Zone E Zone D Zone C Zone B Zone A Zone Concluding Remarks ReferencesChapter 6. The Origin and Evolution of the Earth's Crust and Magmas Introduction The Problem of the Origin of the Sialic Crust Crustal Formation According to "Classical Magmatism" Crustal Formation According to "Neo-Huttonism" The Problem of the Origin of Magmas The Origin of Basaltic Magmas The Origin of Acid Magmas Transitions Between Continental and Oceanic Metabolism General Concept of the Earth's Evolution According to the Undation Theory ReferencesChapter 7. The Alpine Loop of the Tethys Zone General Structural Trendlines of the Alpine Mountain System Mesotectonic Processes Inside the Mediterranean Section of the Tethys Belt Megatectonic Influences on the Mediterranean Section of the Tethys Belt Conclusions ReferencesChapter 8. Geodynamic Models Introduction The Model of Global Plate Tectonics The Model of Regional Mantle Diapirism General Pattern of the Alpine Type Orogenesis Structural Evolution of the Central Mediterranean Consequences of the Tyrrhenian Test Case State and Evolution of the Earth's Tectonic Features Geodynamics of some Other Orogenic Arcs The Process of Sea-Floor Spreading Some Theoretical Scale Considerations Conclusion ReferencesIndex