Growing Up Andes – #365papers – 2017 – 28

#365papers for January 28, 2017

Quade, Dettinger, Carrapa, DeCelles, Murray, Huntington, Cartwright, Canavan, Gehrels, and Clementz, 2015, The growth of the central Andes, 22*S–26*S: GSA memoir 212, p

What’s it about?

This paper applies the method described in yesterday’s #365papers, along with other methods to explore the uplift history of the central Andes.

Why does it matter?

Using geochemical data to estimate elevation and age of various rocks in the Altiplano makes it possible to understand the timing, rate, and pattern of uplift of such a huge high-elevation plateau. Furthermore, by understanding the uplift history, geoscientists can better explain the mechanisms required to build such a huge mountain range.

Why did I read this?

This is a follow-up from yesterday’s #365papers. This paper illustrates precisely the application for which we need to be able to measure hydrogen isotopes from volcanic glass.