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Continental Lithosphere

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The Lithosphere Beneath the Indian Shield

Part of the book series: Modern Approaches in Solid Earth Sciences ((MASE,volume 20))

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Abstract

The chapter offers a concise introduction to the constitution of the lithosphere. In the course of this discussion, the conceptual subdivisions of the lithosphere and their characteristic features are elucidated.

The seismic structure and characteristics of the two main crustal types and their tectonic settings are highlighted. The significance of the more important Moho types and their interrelationship in deep continental studies is underscored.

The subcontinental lithospheric mantle (SCLM) is the non-convective part of the upper mantle. The mineralogical and chemical composition of the SCLM is described and its role in the evolution of the crust and the subjacent mantle is summarised.

The later part of the chapter unfolds the salient features of the methods and techniques employed to study the lithosphere. While the efficacy of the various geophysical methods, employed to study the characteristics of the deep crust and mantle, is highlighted, the limitations are also brought out into discussion. Likewise, the characteristics of the different types of seismic waves, their velocity variations, the factors that influence their propagation and which have a bearing on the interpretation of the characteristics of the deep lithologies are outlined. In addition, the chapter includes the salient features of the electrical and magnetotelluric methods used to study the deep interior. Finally the surface heat flow and heat production measurements, and their advantages and limitations are outlined.

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  1. Department of Earth Science, Goa University, Taleigao Plateau, Goa, India

    Ashoka G. Dessai

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Dessai, A.G. (2021). Continental Lithosphere. In: The Lithosphere Beneath the Indian Shield. Modern Approaches in Solid Earth Sciences, vol 20. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-52942-0_1

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