Tectonic Structures of the South Scotia Ridge Adjacent to the Northern Part of the Powell basin, Antarctica

Abstract

Reflection seismic survey has been conducted using R/V Yuzmogeologia of Russia on the area of between northern part of Powell basin and South Scotia Ridge. 48-channel seismic data have been processed using Promax system. Hesperides and Eastern Deep located in the central part of the South Scotia Ridge show similar geological structure comprising two distinct sedimentary layers. The lower layer filled with fault breccia is considered to be formed with the expansion of the deeps. The upper layer is filled with pelagic sediments which implies this layer is formed after the spreading of the deeps has stopped. The south branch of the South Scotia Ridge is characterized by bigger width than the north branch. Topographical depression shown in the south branch is formed by many faults accompanied with the seafloor expansion of Powell basin.