Modeling, Uplift, Seismology, and Igneous-geochemistry in the Colombian Andes

Consequences of flat slab subduction on the chemical, structural, and dynamic evolution of continental lithosphere. The proposed research seeks to evaluate the consequences of flat slab subduction on the magmatic, structural and geochemical evolution of the northern Andean lithosphere. To accomplish these objectives, this proposal assembles a multi-disciplinary team with expertise in geochronology, geochemistry, seismology, basin analysis, structure/tectonics, thermochronology, and geodynamics. The goals of this project are to 1) develop detailed geophysical imaging of the downgoing plate and overriding lithosphere and asthenosphere to investigate the structural and metasomatic effects of flat slab subduction and foundering; 2) study the magmatic and geochemical effects of flat subduction on the overriding lithosphere through time by studying extrusive products, both above the flat slab and along the region of flat slab foundering; 3) investigate the spatial and temporal patterns of subsidence and uplift associated with flat slabs and flat slab foundering through sedimentary and thermochronologic analyses of the Eastern Cordillera and Magdalena river valley that straddle the boundary between the extant and foundered flat slab and 4) integrate these constraints into iterative and integrative geodynamic models that will improve understanding of how diverse geochemical, structural, and dynamic processes are caused by this significant and distinctive tectonic setting.