Deep Structures in China and Its Adjacent Areas: Plate Tectonics and Its Metallogenic Significance

This paper proposes a new tectonic pattern of the deep-seated structures in China and its adjacent areas (including the T - A - B system of the Ryukyu Islands). This is based on studies of the gravity field and gravity inversion coupled with the summation of the most recent achievements in geophysical studies. From a plate-tectonic point of view, the metallogenic characteristics and their indications at depth, as well as relevant geophysical-geological characteristics of four tectonic environments of the Chinese continent are analysed, and a classification of composite metallogenic provinces and belts and prediction of metallogenic prospects are made. The author extends the Kunlun-Qilian-Qinling tectonic belt to the T-A-B system of the Ryukyu Islands through the NW deep boundary of the Hangzhou Bay, and also proposes the following basic views' the migration and superposition of tectonic environments led to the formation of a composite metallogenic system; the change in the tectonic environment resulted

Deep Structures in China and Its Adjacent Areas: Plate Tectonics and Its Metallogenic Significance

This paper proposes a new tectonic pattern of the deep-seated structures in China and its adjacent areas (including the T - A - B system of the Ryukyu Islands). This is based on studies of the gravity field and gravity inversion coupled with the summation of the most recent achievements in geophysical studies. From a plate-tectonic point of view, the metallogenic characteristics and their indications at depth, as well as relevant geophysical-geological characteristics of four tectonic environments of the Chinese continent are analysed, and a classification of composite metallogenic provinces and belts and prediction of metallogenic prospects are made. The author extends the Kunlun-Qilian-Qinling tectonic belt to the T-A-B system of the Ryukyu Islands through the NW deep boundary of the Hangzhou Bay, and also proposes the following basic views' the migration and superposition of tectonic environments led to the formation of a composite metallogenic system; the change in the tectonic environment resulted in the superposition of various types of mineral deposits; seismic activities and metallogeny are mutually inducing factors. These views will be helpful to a discussion on the tectonic environments and metallogenic regularities.