Describing chemical fluxes in subduction zones: Insights from "depth-profiling" studies of arc and forearc rocks

Jeff Ryan, Julie Morris, Gray Bebout, Bill Leeman

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingChapter

81 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

Trace element systematics in convergent margin metamorphic and volcanic rocks show that subducting slabs release fluids of changing composition as a function of depth. Volcanic transects across arcs record declines in H20-soluble elements (B, Cs, As, and Sb) with increasing depth that parallel declines with increasing metamorphic grade in "subduction complex" associations. These paired, prograde declines point to decreasing inputs of H20-rich fluids from the subducting slab. Uniform K, Ba, REE and l^Be levels across arcs suggest that slab-derived fluxes of different compositions persist to greater depths. Slabs returned to the mantle via subduction should have profoundly fractionated chemical signatures, and substantial fluid releases should occur through forearc regions. Serpentinites from the Marianas forearc show elevated B contents, and fractionated trace element signatures suggesting inputs of fluids like those released from metamorphosed slabs at low temperatures.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationSubduction Top to Bottom, 1996
EditorsGray E. Bebout, David W. Scholl, Stephen H. Kirby, John P. Platt
PublisherBlackwell Publishing Ltd
Pages263-268
Number of pages6
ISBN (Electronic)9781118664575
ISBN (Print)9780875900780
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 1996
Externally publishedYes

Publication series

NameGeophysical Monograph Series
Volume96
ISSN (Print)0065-8448
ISSN (Electronic)2328-8779

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Geophysics

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