Development of a cambrian back-arc basin in the North Qilian orogenic belt: New constraints from gabbros in Yushigou ophiolite

• DOI: 10.3389/feart.2023.1192997
• Publication Date: 2023-04-21T04:38:55Z
• Authors: Hao Tian; Xijun Liu; Hao Wu; Dechao Li; Xiao Liu; Qi Song; Zhenglin Li; Pengde Liu; Rongguo Hu; Qijun Yang
• Keywords: Geochronology; Back-arc basin

Introduction: The North Qilian orogenic belt, as the Northern branch of original Tethys tectonic domain, is important for reconstructing evolution ancient Tethys. However, history belt remains controversial. This study addresses this issue from a geochemical perspective. Methods: In study, comprehensive analysis geochronology, whole-rock geochemistry, clinopyroxene mineral zircon Ti crystallization temperature, and gabbromagma temperature pressure in Yushigou ophiolite was conducted to provide constraints on its evolution. Results Discussion: Laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry U-Pb dating results reveal that gabbros have ages 519 ± 3 Ma 495 4 Ma, belonging Cambrian period. Most studied exhibited characteristics tholeiitic basaltic rocks with normal mid-ocean ridge basalt island arc tholeiite dual affinities. are interpreted formed by high degree partial melting depleted mantle spinel lherzolite. These suggest back-arc basin may evolved relatively mature stage Ma. Overall, contributes our understanding through analyses.