Magmatic Evolution of the Bræðravirki Ridge Basalts in Western Iceland
Name: Judith Topham
Major: Geology
Advisors: Meagen Pollock, Mark Wilson
Bræðravirki is a hyaloclastic dominated tindar in the Western Volcanic Zone of Iceland. It is geochemically distinct from the surrounding region. This study focused on plagioclase geochemistry analyzed using an electron microprobe. The plagioclase demonstrated normal zoning, reverse zoning, rounded zone corners, skeletal texture, and sieve texture. A model for magma evolution was constructed using the presence of the zoning, textures, and An content. The model has three stages: separate magma evolution, injection and mixing, and simultaneous eruption and quenching event. The importance of magma mixing in subglacial volcanism should be evaluated and possibly included in the current theory of tindar formation.
Posted in Comments Enabled, Independent Study, Symposium 2023 on April 13, 2023.
6 responses to “Magmatic Evolution of the Bræðravirki Ridge Basalts in Western Iceland”
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So cool !!! I’m so proud of you Judith 🙂 -your favorite sister
Judith! I don’t know what half of this means, but I know all of it means you’re awesome! So proud of you! – Ms. Clay
So fascinating that you could interpret the history of the ridge from crystals in a thin section. Your study demonstrates how important it is to look at the details. Nice work, Judith! You rock!
Sounds like the current theory of tindar formation requires an upgrade tbh. This is awesome Judith!!!!
Great job, Judith. Your electron microprobe images are awesome because they add so much to your poster. However, my favorite is your model — a complex process that you explained so simply.
Congratulations, Judith! We are so proud of you!