J. Gee et al., REVERSED-POLARITY OVERPRINT IN DIKES FROM THE TROODOS OPHIOLITE - IMPLICATIONS FOR THE TIMING OF ALTERATION AND EXTENSION, Geology, 21(9), 1993, pp. 849-852
Paleomagnetic analysis of dikes from the Troodos ophiolite indicates t
he presence of a well-defined reversed-polarity overprint, an unexpect
ed result given the currently accepted Cenomanian-Turonian age (approx
imately 88-91 Ma) suggesting formation during the Cretaceous Long Norm
al Period (83-118 Ma). This reversed-polarity component was apparently
acquired prior to tectonic tilting of the dikes, implying that extens
ional tectonism occurred significantly (>5 m.y.) off axis. Alternative
ly, the paleomagnetic and field observations may be reconciled if part
s of the ophiolite are significantly younger.