Geography Reference
In-Depth Information
FIGURE 2.30 Generalized cross sections of eastern Alps, based upon the idea that they were formed
from recumbent folds and nappes driven northward from the ancient Tethyan (Mediterranean
Sea) geocline by the closing of Africa and Europe. (A) An older interpretation of nappe folds
without significant thrust faulting (after Holmes 1965). (B) Recent interpretation of thrust-faulted
detachment blocks and nappe folds (after Boyer and Elliot 1982; Plummer et al. 2003).
FIGURE 2.31 Two interpretations of the mechanism responsible for emplacing older strata over
younger in the Alps near Glarus, Switzerland. The lower illustration, of one over-thrust sheet or
nappe, is the accepted view. Length of section is 40 km (25 mi). (After Holmes 1965.)
The Alps today are only the skeletal remains of a formerly more robust mountain
body. Theoretical reconstruction of the original is exceedingly complex, and several
schools of thought have arisen from different interpretations of nappes. Early workers
Search WWH ::




Custom Search