The formation of the 8˚20’ N seamount chain, east pacific rise

Abstract Near-axis seamounts provide a unique setting to investigate three-dimensional mantle processes associated with the formation of new oceanic crust and lithosphere. Here, we characteristics evolution 8˚20’N Seamount Chain, lineament that extends ~ 175 km west East Pacific Rise (EPR) axis, just north fracture zone Siqueiros Transform Fault. Shipboard gravity, magnetic, bathymetric data acquired in 2016 are utilized constrain models seamount emplacement evolution. Geophysical observations indicate these formed during four distinct episodes volcanism coinciding changes regional plate motion also reflected development intra-transform spreading centers (ITSCs) along transform fault (Fornari et al. 1989; Pockalny 1997). Although is divided into segments, magnetic continuous volcanic construction over long portions chain. Crustal thickness variations chain up 0.75 increase eastward, inferred from gravity measurements, suggest reorganization has considerably impacted melt distribution area surrounding Siqueiros-EPR ridge intersection. This appears have resulted increased Seamounts. These findings melting subsequently lithosphere highly sensitive tectonic stress vicinity fast-spreading offsets.