L4.6: Evolution of Ocean Basin

• EVOLUTION OF OCEAN BASIN

  1. Embryonic

  2. Juvenile

  3. Mature

  4. Declining

  5. Terminal

  6. Suturing
• Embryonic: rift valley forms as continents begin to split
• Juvenile: sea-floor basalts form as continental sections diverge
• Mature: broad ocean basin widens, trenches develop and subduction begins
• Declining: subduction eliminates much of the sea floor and oceanic ridge. Increased seismic activity.
• Suturing: last of the sea floor is eliminated and continents collide, forming a continental mountain.
• Suturing: last of the sea floor is eliminated and continents collide, forming a continental mountain.