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New evidence for impact origin of the Bushveld Complex, South AfricaThe importance of hypervelocity impacts as a geologic process is demonstrated by the example of the Bushveld Complex and the (nearby) Vredefort Ring. Each is interpreted as the result of four simultaneous impacts modified by large-scale endogenic processes triggered by the impact event. The layered mafic sequence and the voluminous red granite associated with the complex are endogenic magmas, probably generated by pressure release accompanying crater excavation. Shock melting of older sedimentary rocks must have produced a layer of impact melt (the Rooiberg Felsite), the upper part of which was extruded over its originally chilled crust as a series of thick lava flows. Field evidence and radiometric age determinations indicate that the Bushveld Complex formed approximately 2000 billion years ago.
Document ID
19770034712
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Reprint (Version printed in journal)
Authors
Rhodes, R. C.
Date Acquired
August 9, 2013
Publication Date
October 1, 1975
Publication Information
Publication: Geology
Subject Category
Earth Resources And Remote Sensing
Accession Number
77A17564
Funding Number(s)
CONTRACT_GRANT: NGL-32-004-011
CONTRACT_GRANT: NGL-32-004-001
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Other

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