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Palaeomagnetic constraints on the collision and rotation of North and South China

Abstract

The eastern half of China is dominated by the North China Block (NCB) and South China Block (SCB), separated by a complex fold system that trends roughly east-west. Interpretation of the geology of this fold belt has led to a variety of estimates of the age of amalgamation of these two blocks1–7. Palaeomagnetic results are few and have also been subject to conflicting interpretations8–11. Here we present our own palaeomagnetic results for late Permian rocks for both the SCB and NCB and summarize other relevant palaeomagnetic data. By reinterpreting the polarity given in some previous studies we are able to synthesize the results for the widespread Emeishan basalts of the SCB and to suggest a new model for the collision and relative rotation of the two blocks.

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Zhao, X., Coe, R. Palaeomagnetic constraints on the collision and rotation of North and South China . Nature 327, 141–144 (1987). https://doi.org/10.1038/327141a0

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