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Published 1986 | public
Journal Article

The border connection; geological correlations and contrasts between Arizona and Sonora

Abstract

The same tectonostratigraphic evolution characterizes a broad belt of rocks centered along the border between Arizona and Sonora. Differences are evident in areas tens of kilometers north and south of the border region. No counterpart of the stable Colorado Plateau north of the border belt exists in Sonora. Terranes, south of the border belt, are separated by faults or less obvious discontinuities in structural, stratigraphic and isotopic patterns. Directions of movement on postulated faults are hotly debated. Locally, where terrane borders are strongly obscured by subsequent tectonism, volcanism, intrusion and/or sedimentation, they are almost mystical or mythical. Tests of the hypothesis that some of the terranes record hundreds of kilometers of left-lateral offset have been undertaken. Although the results are not probative, they are very supportive.

Additional Information

© 1986 Arizona Geological Society. Our research in Sonora would not have been possible without the cooperation and support of colleagues and institutions on both sides of the border. Diego Cordoba and Jose Guerrero, past and present Directors of the Instituto de Geologia de Mexico have co-operated in our investigations for many years. In Sonora, organizations such as the Estacion Regional del Noroeste del Instituto de Geologia directed by Jaime Roldan, the Consejo de Recursos Minerales and the Departamento de Geologia de la Universidad de Sonora have each contributed in substantive ways. Jack Stewart and Gordon Haxel kindly included Anderson in their recent research efforts. Exchanges with these geologists as well as with many others including Claude Rangin, George Davis, Carlos Gonzalez and Guillermo Salas have been helpful and informative. Anderson has been aided by a willing and eager group of graduate students. We acknowledge National Science Foundation grants which have financed many years of study.

Additional details

Created:
August 19, 2023
Modified:
October 25, 2023