structureofthewollastonlakereflector(trans-hudson.docVIP

Structure of the Wollaston Lake Reflector (Trans-Hudson Orogen, Canada) from reflection AVO analysis: fractured diabase intrusion, fluids, or silicified shear zone? Jinfeng Ma1,2 and Igor B. Morozov2 1State Key Laboratory of Continental Dynamics, Department of Geology, Northwest University, China 2Department of Geological Sciences, 114 Science Place, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK S7N 5E2, Canada Address for correspondence: Igor B. Morozov Department of Geological Sciences University of Saskatchewan 114 Science Place Saskatoon, SK S7N5E2 CANADA Tel. (306) 966 2761 Fax (306) 966 8593 E-mail igor.morozov@usask.ca Abstract A nearly 160-km long Wollaston Lake Reflector (WLR) represents one of the most spectacular and well-recorded features imaged within the crystalline crust. It was recorded in seismic reflection profile S2b of the 1994 Lithoprobe Trans-Hudson Orogen transect (THOT) in northern Saskatchewan (Canada). Initial analysis of this line targeted structural and geological interpretation and left aside the subtler properties of reflection amplitudes. Based on modeling its normal-incidence reflectivity, the reflector was originally interpreted as a series of subhorizontal, tabular diabase intrusions. However, the unusual horizontal extent, nearly constant depth, compactness, brightness, and continuity of this intrusion still remain enigmatic and suggest a contribution of low-viscosity fluids in its formation. To further study the properties of WLR, and also to elucidate the deep crustal reflectors and rock properties along the Trans-Hudson Orogen transect, we reprocessed line S2b with an emphasis on the Amplitude Variations with Offset (AVO) analysis. While recognizing the difficulty of establishing the reflection polarity of crustal reflections, we considered both positive- and negative-polarity interpretations. The measurements indicate high and positive AVO gradients and suggest two possible interpretations: 1) the reflector is caused by