Geodynamic Processes in Lithosphere and Asthenosphere

On the basis of the overall global model of movements within the Earth, let us estimate in detail the most important geological processes occurring in the lithosphere and at its surface essentially due to interactions between the lithosphere and asthenosphere. This analysis commences with the interactions of asthenosphere and lithosphere in the oceans leading to sea-floor spreading and formation of oceanic crust. This is followed by an analysis of the genesis of rifting and formation of passive margins of continents. Then comes the analysis of processes occurring in subduction zones leading to the development of island arc—continental crust and specific accretionary—collision complexes. Finally, the zones of continental collision and the formation of orogenic belts, including granitic magmatism and metamorphism, are dealt with at the end of this chapter.