Abstract
The geochemistry of carbonate fault rocks has been examined in two
areas of the Arava Fault segment, which forms the major branch of
the Dead Sea Transform between the Dead Sea and the Gulf of Aquaba.
The role of fluids in faulting deformation in the selected fault
segment is remarkably different from observations at other major
fault zones. Our data suggest reduced fluid rock interactions in
both areas and limited fluid flow. The fault did not act as an important
fluid conduit. There are no indications that hydrothermal reactions
(cementation, dissolution) did change the strength and behavior of
the fault zone, although the two areas show considerable differences
with respect to fluid sources and fluid flow. In one area, the investigated
calcite mineralization reveals an open fluid system with fluids originating
from a variety of sources. Stable isotopes (d13C, d18O), strontium
isotopes, and trace elements indicate both infiltration of descending
(meteoric and/or sea water) and ascending hydrothermal fluids. In
the other area, all geochemical data indicate only local (small scale)
fluid redistribution. These fluids were derived from the adjacent
limestones under nearly closed-system conditions.
Users
Please
log in to take part in the discussion (add own reviews or comments).