Geophysical investigation of the West Antarctic continental margin between Wrigley Gulf and the Amundsen Sea Embayment

Abstract

The aim of this thesis is the investigation of the Westantarcitc continental margin between Wrigely Gulf and the Amundsen Sea Embayment based on a geophysical dataset collected during two expedition of the research vessel Polarstern in 2006 and 2010. This study presents a compilation of 3D potential field forward modelling results inculding a set of seismic reflection and refraction profiles to investigate the lithospheric architecture and tectonic development of this poorly known part of Antarctica. The results presented in this study decipher the crustal structure and tectonic development in this area for the first time.