Principles of Terrane Analysis

Since the 1960s, the general theory of plate tectonics has provided a clear link between the geological processes of seafloor spreading, subduction and mountain building. However, details of how this theory relates to continental tectonics are still unclear. This book introduces the reader to the principles of terrane analysis, and describes how accretion tectonics relates to classic plate tectonics theory and what this represents in terms of mountain building and continental growth processes. A forensic-like investigation of continental geology is detailed, integrating many different sub-disciplines of the Earth Sciences. The concepts outlined have a practical bent and help to explain the nature and occurences of petroleum and metallic mineral deposits. The author conveys complex ideas in a way that is easy to comprehend. Senior undergraduates and graduate students should find this a useful synthesis of structural geology and tectonics. This book should also be of interest to advanced undergraduates, graduates interested in tectonics and mountain building.