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A note on the regional context of the Loch Monar synform

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  01 May 2009

A. J. Watkinson
Affiliation:
Department of Geology, Washington State University, Pullman, WA 99164, U.S.A.
R. L. Thiessen
Affiliation:
Department of Geology, Washington State University, Pullman, WA 99164, U.S.A.

Abstract

The Loch Monar Synform folds the Sgurr Beag slide in the central northwest Highlands of Scotland. The east–west trend of the synform is oblique to the regional trend of the slide. However, when late-stage strain effects associated with superimposed folds on the synform are removed using computer techniques, the trace of the synform axial surface becomes perpendicular to the regional trace of the slide. The synform also becomes tighter and recumbent in attitude. The synform axis is parallel to strongly developed lineations. Folds of this generation appear to be localized in the vicinity of the slide. These observations suggest a model of folding associated with movement of the slide, followed by locking up of the slide and internal strain resulting in the superimposed folds and rotation of the synform.

Type
Articles
Copyright
Copyright © Cambridge University Press 1989

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