The Line Islands volcanic chain in the central Pacific Ocean exhibits many characteristics of a hotspot-generated seamount chain; however, the lack of a predictable age progression has stymied previous models for the origin of this feature. We combined plate-tectonic reconstructions with seamount age dates and available geochemistry to develop a new model that involves multiple melt regions and multiple melt delivery styles to explain the spatial and temporal history of the Line Islands system. Our model identifies a new melt source region (Larson melt region at ~17°S, ~125°W) that contributed to the formation of the Line Islands, as well as the Mid-Pacific Mountains and possibly the Pukapuka Ridge.
Citation Information
Publication Year | 2021 |
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Title | Multiple melt source origin of the Line Islands (Pacific Ocean) |
DOI | 10.1130/G49306.1 |
Authors | Robert Pockalny, Ginger Barth, Barry Eakins, Katherine A. Kelley, Christina Wertman |
Publication Type | Article |
Publication Subtype | Journal Article |
Series Title | Geology |
Index ID | 70223510 |
Record Source | USGS Publications Warehouse |
USGS Organization | Pacific Coastal and Marine Science Center |