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A model for the origin of the alkaline complexes of Egypt

Nature volume 291, pages 571–574 (1981)Cite this article

Abstract

The alkaline complexes in the Nubian Shield of Egypt range in age from 554 to 89 Myr BP (refs 1–3) and, where data are available, have similar and primitive initial strontium ratios of 87Sr/86Sr (ref. 1). These intrusive complexes are similar with respect to petrography, major element chemistry, rare earth element distribution and other trace element distribution1,4–7; they are intimately associated with major lineaments in the Nubian Shield (Fig. 1)8. It is likely that all of them had a similar origin, not directly related to rifting and/or doming. We suggest here that the origin of these complexes is due to alkaline melts having been formed in the asthenosphere by shear heating, caused by changes in plate motion. These melts were emplaced along reactivated Pan-African fractures or pre-existing zones of weakness.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Geology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, 48824, USA

    Phil de Gruyter & Thomas A. Vogel

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  1. Phil de Gruyter
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  2. Thomas A. Vogel
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de Gruyter, P., Vogel, T. A model for the origin of the alkaline complexes of Egypt. Nature 291, 571–574 (1981). https://doi.org/10.1038/291571a0

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