Paleomagnetic evidence bearing on the structural development of the Latir volcanic field near Questa, New Mexico
The mid-Tertiary Latir volcanic field in northern New Mexico comprises intermediate-composition volcanics overlain by a regional ash flow sheet and associated lavas of rhyolitic composition that are all cut by silicic-alkalic grantic intrusives. Deeply exposed along the eastern flank of the Rio Grande rift, the silicic extrusive and intrusive rocks all yield radiometric ages of about 23 m.y., within analytical uncertainties. Flow banding and eutaxitic structures within the extrusive units indicate intense structural deformation, which for the most part increases toward the Questa caldera. Paleomagnetic study was undertaken to obtain information on the orientation of the eruptive and intrusive units and to employ the magnetic directions for an evaluation of the tectonic and igneous history of the caldera and enclosing volcanic field. Radiometric ages and the paleomagnetic data indicate that an episode of pronounced extension coincided with a major pulse of igneous activity in the region 23 m.y. ago. Eastward tilting of the volcanic units appears to have been closely followed by caldera collapse and then by resurgent doming of the caldera. Welded tuff units within the caldera were turned on end and together with older volcanic units were incorporated in a collapse megabreccia. The megabreccia and other nearby units were partially or entirely overprinted by a thermochemical aureole associated with the resurgent doming and attendant hydrothermal circulation. The stocks of the resurgent dome appear to have undergone no significant later tilting.
- Research Organization:
- U. S. Geological Survey, Menlo Park, California 94025
- OSTI ID:
- 6121673
- Journal Information:
- J. Geophys. Res.; (United States), Vol. 87:B9
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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