PLATE KINEMATIC RECONSTRUCTION AND RESTORATION VIA FRACTAL ERROR MINIMIZATION

Through a combination of visualization and advanced information theory it is possible to provide more sophisticated methods for plate reconstruction and analysis. Fractal analysis is extended beyond the characterization of such scale-independent, self-similar geologic phenomena as fault and drainage networks, topography, and earthquake magnitudes. “Fractality” is also exhibited in reconstructions of magnetic isochrons and fracture-zone offsets across oceanic spreading centers and in the restoration of isotopic dates from hot-spot traces. Because such self-similarity is present, it can be used as a basis for the improvement and refinement of not only finite reconstructions, but also continuous characterization of plate kinematics, including asymmetric spreading in both plate-to-plate and plate-to-hotspot reference frames. In addition, virtually all of the magnetic isochron and fracture zone identifications from a particular ocean basin can be used in this type of approach, rather than just key isochrons for which a significant number of identifications are available. Further, as the theoretical underpinnings of fractal structure have been elaborated from this information theory, it may be possible to extract continuous uncertainties from optimal reconstructions and restorations.

Data from the principal hotspots of the Tristan (Atlantic and Indian Ocean) and Hawaiian (Pacific Ocean) frames illustrate fractal structure and the possible improvement of existing reconstruction/kinematic models for both hotspot frames, especially as more data become available. Similarly, tentative applications of the method of Australian-Antarctic reconstructions provide promises of improved reconstructions, with the byproduct of continuous kinematic models with a characterization of uncertainties. Utilization of new visualization platforms (e.g., GoogleEarth^TM, GeoGraphix^TM Discovery 3D) provide further and flexible appraisal of the calculated reconstructions.