Testing mantle plume theory by reconstructing the temporal-spatial and geochemical development of hotspot volcanism linked to the Galapagos plume

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Our aim is a better understanding of the temporal-spatial distribution and geochemical variability of the Galapagos Hotspot System (GHS), a region of widespread midplate volcanism located offshore Central America. We therefore request funding for integrating high precision rock ages and geochemical data for many recently dredge-sampled GHS rock samples - together with magnetic and seismic profile information - so that we can reconstruct the development of these widely dispersed structures. This key new information will allow us to map the physical and geochemical interaction between the Galapagos plume and local spreading boundaries, reconstruct the absolute motion of the Nazca and Cocos tectonic plates, and infer the long-term behavior of the Galapagos mantle plume. Moreover, such an improved understanding of the long-term behavior of the Galapagos plume-hotspot will contribute significantly to our long-term research themes of 1) defining the mantle and lithospheric processes controlling distribution and geochemical variability of hotspot volcanism, 2) plume-ridge interaction, 3) absolute plate motion reconstruction, 4) plume fixity, 5) role of plumes in active (and passive) margin development and in creating 'Large Igneous Provinces' (LIPs) and 6) general mantle plume theory.