HEAT-PRODUCTION IN THE CONTINENTAL-CRUST .1. DATA CONVERTED FROM SEISMIC VELOCITIES AND THEIR ATTEMPTED INTERPRETATION

When using the simple exponential distribution of radiogenic heat prod uction (A) with depth (z), A(z) = A0 exp(-z/D), the statistical analys is of a large number of heat production profiles, converted from the o bserved seismic velocity vs. depth profiles and the experimental knowl edge of the relationship between seismic velocity and heat production, disclosed certain relations between the logarithmic decrement (D-valu e) and heat flow, tectonic age and crustal thickness. The D-value in t his respect characterizes the depth rate of the differentiation of the heat production. In all tectonic units the D-parameter decreases with depth. As the next step, the more complicated distribution law A(z) = A0 exp(-z/D) - a was applied, where a characterizes the quantity of r emoved heat sources by the processes accompanying the crustal evolutio n (such as remelting, metamorphosis, leaching by underground waters, e tc.). All parameters A0, a and D are constant within each particular t ectonic province and parameter D does not depend on depth, contrary to the former law. The amount of removed heat sources a reflects the ini tial concentration of heat sources, and is higher in young tectonic te rranes, in areas of high heat flow and in regions of thin crust.