2012 | M. Seton, R.D. Müller, S. Zahirovic, C. Gaina, T. Torsvik, G. Shephard, A. Talsma, M. Gurnis, M. Turner, S. Maus, M. Chandler
A new global plate motion model has been developed that provides a continuous record of tectonic plate movements since the breakup of Pangea (~200 Ma). This model uses a hybrid absolute reference frame, combining a moving hotspot model for the last 100 Ma with a true-polar-wander-corrected paleomagnetic model for 200–100 Ma. It incorporates detailed geological and geophysical data to define plate boundary inception or cessation and time-dependent geometry. The model is based on the reconstruction of the seafloor-spreading history of ocean basins and the motions of continents, using a set of continuously-closing topological plate polygons. This approach allows for a dynamic representation of tectonic plates and their boundaries, which is essential for understanding the coupling between the surface and mantle. The model is designed as a reference framework for geodynamic studies, providing surface boundary conditions for the deep earth, and is also useful for studies in various fields when a framework is needed for analyzing and interpreting spatio-temporal data. The model includes detailed regional reconstructions of continental and ocean floor features, such as the Atlantic and Arctic, Pacific and Panthalassa, Tethys and Indian Ocean, and marginal and back-arc basins. It covers a wide range of time periods, from 200–180 Ma to 20–0 Ma, and provides a continuous record of plate motions. The model is based on a combination of published and new magnetic anomaly identifications, finite rotations, and seafloor spreading isochrons. It uses a hybrid reference frame and incorporates data from satellite gravity anomalies and magnetic anomaly grids. The model is validated against various geological and geophysical data, and it provides a detailed and accurate representation of plate motions over the last 200 million years. The model is available in digital format and can be used for a variety of geological studies.A new global plate motion model has been developed that provides a continuous record of tectonic plate movements since the breakup of Pangea (~200 Ma). This model uses a hybrid absolute reference frame, combining a moving hotspot model for the last 100 Ma with a true-polar-wander-corrected paleomagnetic model for 200–100 Ma. It incorporates detailed geological and geophysical data to define plate boundary inception or cessation and time-dependent geometry. The model is based on the reconstruction of the seafloor-spreading history of ocean basins and the motions of continents, using a set of continuously-closing topological plate polygons. This approach allows for a dynamic representation of tectonic plates and their boundaries, which is essential for understanding the coupling between the surface and mantle. The model is designed as a reference framework for geodynamic studies, providing surface boundary conditions for the deep earth, and is also useful for studies in various fields when a framework is needed for analyzing and interpreting spatio-temporal data. The model includes detailed regional reconstructions of continental and ocean floor features, such as the Atlantic and Arctic, Pacific and Panthalassa, Tethys and Indian Ocean, and marginal and back-arc basins. It covers a wide range of time periods, from 200–180 Ma to 20–0 Ma, and provides a continuous record of plate motions. The model is based on a combination of published and new magnetic anomaly identifications, finite rotations, and seafloor spreading isochrons. It uses a hybrid reference frame and incorporates data from satellite gravity anomalies and magnetic anomaly grids. The model is validated against various geological and geophysical data, and it provides a detailed and accurate representation of plate motions over the last 200 million years. The model is available in digital format and can be used for a variety of geological studies.