Metamorphic Core Complexes (MCCs) form when a thickened domain with a low-strength lower crust is submitted to extension. These structures are characteristic of post-orogenic extension, and field observations suggest that several MCCs rework a crustal nappe-stack emplaced before extension begins. These MCCs therefore develop within heterogeneous crusts that contain pre-existing dipping heteroge...

Large Igneous Provinces (LIPs) are unusual volcanic events in which massive amounts of melt (∼106 km3) erupt relatively short time periods (<106 years). Most LIP magmas have undergone extensive fractional crystallization and crustal contamination, but the magmatic plumbing systems processes triggering eruptions poorly understood. We present new major trace element radiogenic isotope data for 43...

We present models for the structure of the crust and upper mantle beneath lunar impact basins from an inversion of gravity and topographic data from the nearside of the moon. All basin models display a thinner crust and an elevated Moho beneath the central basin region compared to surrounding areas, a signature of the processes of basin excavation and mantle uplift during collapse of the transi...

Citation: Caricchi L, Simpson G and Schaltegger U (2016) Estimates of Volume and Magma Input in Crustal Magmatic Systems from Zircon Geochronology: The Effect of Modeling Assumptions and System Variables. Front. Earth Sci. 4:48. doi: 10.3389/feart.2016.00048 Estimates of Volume and Magma Input in Crustal Magmatic Systems from Zircon Geochronology: The Effect of Modeling Assumptions and System V...

Background The Sediment Quality Objectives (SQO) indirect effects assessment determines whether sediments meet California’s narrative SQO for human health: Pollutants shall not be present in sediments at levels that will bioaccumulate in aquatic life to levels that are harmful to human health. This program determines whether sediment contamination at a site results in an unacceptable health ris...