Geologic province
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File:World geologic provinces.jpgGeologic provinces of the world (USGS)
| Oceanic crust: 0–20 Ma 20–65 Ma >65 Ma |
 | This article includes a list of general references, but it lacks sufficient corresponding inline citations. (May 2014) |
A geologic province or geological province is a spatial entity with common geologic attributes.[1] A province may include a single dominant structural element such as a basin or a fold belt, or a number of contiguous related elements. Adjoining provinces may be similar in structure but be considered separate due to differing histories.
Geologic provinces by origin
[edit | edit source]| Province | Definition | Subcategories | Examples |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shield | Exposed Precambrian crystalline igneous and metamorphic rocks that form tectonically stable areas | ||
| Platform | Horizontal or gently-lying sedimentary strata covering a basement of igneous or metamorphic rocks | ||
| Orogen | Linear or arc-shaped formation where continental crust has been folded, deformed and uplifted to form mountain ranges | ||
| Basin | Low-lying formation of rock strata formed by tectonic warping of previously horizontal strata | ||
| Large igneous province | Accumulation of igneous rocks, including liquid rock (intrusive) or volcanic rock formations (extrusive) | ||
| Extended crust | Continental crust thinned due to extensional strain |
Geologic provinces by resources
[edit | edit source]
Some studies classify provinces based upon mineral resources, such as mineral deposits. There are a particularly large number of provinces identified worldwide for petroleum and other mineral fuels, such as the Niger Delta petroleum province.
See also
[edit | edit source]References
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