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A model to explain the differences between Pacific plate island-atoll types

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Summary

Eleven island-atoll types typical of the Pacific lithospheric plate are described. Tectonic-volcanic information which might help explain present island-atoll forms is then detailed. This information concerns the movement of the Pacific lithospheric plate into deeper occan as the plate ages, effects of reheating mid-plate areas, compressional effects before the plate is subducted and the origin and local isostasy of the original island volcanic bases. Examples of seamount chains such as the Hawaiian-Emperor are then examined to see how impinging tectonic factors relate to observed island-atoll forms. The paper concludes with one model integrating the tectonicvolcanic possibilities so as to account for all Pacific plate island-atoll types.

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  1. G. M. Rotondo

    Present address: , 114 Melrose Ave. E., R2C 0A7, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada

Authors and Affiliations

  1. University of Winnipeg, 515 Portage Avenue, R3B 2E9, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada

    G. A. J. Scott & G. M. Rotondo

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  1. G. A. J. Scott
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  2. G. M. Rotondo
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Scott, G.A.J., Rotondo, G.M. A model to explain the differences between Pacific plate island-atoll types. Coral Reefs 1, 139–150 (1983). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00571191

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