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Coexisting divergent and convergent plate boundary assemblages indicate plate tectonics in the Neoarchean

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  • Bo Huang

    (China University of Geosciences)

  • Tim E. Johnson

    (Curtin University)

  • Simon A. Wilde

    (Curtin University)

  • Ali Polat

    (University of Windsor)

  • Dong Fu

    (China University of Geosciences)

  • Timothy Kusky

    (China University of Geosciences)

Abstract

The coexistence of divergent (spreading ridge) and convergent (subduction zone) plate boundaries at which lithosphere is respectively generated and destroyed is the hallmark of plate tectonics. Here, we document temporally- and spatially-associated Neoarchean (2.55–2.51 Ga) rock assemblages with mid-ocean ridge and supra-subduction-zone origins from the Angou Complex, southern North China Craton. These assemblages record seafloor spreading and contemporaneous subduction initiation and mature arc magmatism, respectively, analogous to modern divergent and convergent plate boundary processes. Our results provide direct evidence for lateral plate motions in the late Neoarchean, and arguably the operation of plate tectonics, albeit with warmer than average Phanerozoic subduction geotherms. Further, we surmise that plate tectonic processes played an important role in shaping Earth’s surficial environments during the Neoarchean and Paleoproterozoic.

Suggested Citation

  • Bo Huang & Tim E. Johnson & Simon A. Wilde & Ali Polat & Dong Fu & Timothy Kusky, 2022. "Coexisting divergent and convergent plate boundary assemblages indicate plate tectonics in the Neoarchean," Nature Communications, Nature, vol. 13(1), pages 1-13, December.
    • Handle: RePEc:nat:natcom:v:13:y:2022:i:1:d:10.1038_s41467-022-34214-8
    DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-34214-8
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    1. Bo Huang & Man Liu & Timothy M. Kusky & Tim E. Johnson & Simon A. Wilde & Dong Fu & Hao Deng & Qunye Qian, 2023. "Changes in orogenic style and surface environment recorded in Paleoproterozoic foreland successions," Nature Communications, Nature, vol. 14(1), pages 1-14, December.

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