Some Deep-Seated Features Of Platform Provinces Of The Soviet Union

Geophysical and deep-drilling data disclose the block nature of the faulting in both folded and platform provinces of the crust. System and morphology of deep-seated structures embraces two types of major elements: large angular crustal blocks bordered by intense crush zones on one or more sides,and narrow elongated graben rifts. On platforms, the sedimentary cover conceals the true identity of the deep-seated structures which reveal themselves as gentle flexures but seldom by thickening or thinning of the beds as a whole. Deep rifts of the Russian platforms (Russian, Scythian-Turanian, West Siberian, and East Siberian) are interpreted as parts of a planetary system of rifts. Associated with these major features are sub-systems of more localized faults and fold belts. The deep Russian rifts and structures of the platforms are analyzed by depth to basement measurements which collectively show the enormous amount of absolute crustal subsidence even on relatively elevated platforms. Combinations of platform and geosynclinal tectonic provinces are discussed with some interesting variations on the general pattern of geosynclinal evolution. - -B. N. Cooper.