AbstractsEarth & Environmental Science

Geology and structure of 1,000 square miles of granulite-upper amphibolite facies gneisses cut by syn- and late-kinematic intrusions are described. The circular post-kinematic Mutton Bay alkaline syenite (631 m.y.) is divided into three main intrusive groups on the basis of chemistry, mineralogy, and field relations. Differentiation includes gravity settling and flow differentiation, while intrusion involved early stoping and assimilation with late faulting. Depth of the present level below the roof of the intrusion is estimated at 6-8 miles and temperature of crystallization of felspars in the early magmas at greater than 1015°C at less than 500 bars water pressure. Orthoclase inverted to microcline in foliated rocks that intruded as crystal mushes. A giant gabbro dyke with syenite differentiate (470 m.y.) is intruded by diabase and trachyte dykes. Carbonate enrichment in the trachytes is accompanied by high potash felspar content. Sandstone dykes are the only Paleozoic sediments.