9614758 Miller Mineral lineations are commonly observed in ductilely deformed crustal rocks, and they potentially record considerable kinematic information. However, there is currently debate about the significance and interpretation of mineral lineations, including whether they record regional displacement directions, regional stretching directions or heterogeneous strain. Flow partitioning and volume loss also are potential factors. This project will use the well-studied Cascade Core of the mid-Cretaceous orogeny in the North Cascades Mountain of Washington to investigate the kinematic significance of mineral lineations formed at mid-crustal depths. Successful results will be widely applicable to ductile deformation in many other orogens, may provide better procedures for understanding these lineations and allow further evaluation of flow fields in the mid crust.
