Some Boundary Conditions for the Evolution of the Mediterranean Region

Abstract

This study views the evolution of the Mediterranean region as part of a long-lived continental collision zone that originally separated Laurasia from Gondwanaland. The relative motions of stable Africa relative to stable Europe, and vice versa, have been calculated from recently available data. The motions have been shown as increments and as total displacements. The total displacements have also been calculated for the hotspots frame both for stable Europe and for stable Africa. These motions define boundary conditions that must be satisfied by all plate tectonic solutions to the Mediterranean region. The rate of change of oceanic area in the region has been calculated since the central Atlantic began to open. Extrapolation suggests that continental suturing will be complete at about 34 m.y. in the future.