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The layered basic and ultrabasic intensives of the Giles Complex, Central Australia

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Abstract

A series of layered basic and ultrabasic intrusions in Central Australia is similar to other folded basic complexes. The Australian examples were emplaced after a period of highgrade metamorphism and have subsequently been rotated. Chemical investigation of several of the intrusions shows that cryptic variation is present, and in at least two cases intrusions were initially of different bulk composition. It is suggested that the parent magma was partially fractionated prior to final emplacement. The relative deficiency of ultrabasic rocks in this complex (less than 10%) when compared with other complexes is attributed to this process.

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Nesbitt, R.W., Talbot, J.L. The layered basic and ultrabasic intensives of the Giles Complex, Central Australia. Contr. Mineral. and Petrol. 13, 1–11 (1966). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00518123

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