Paleomagnetism of Middle Atlas lavas (Morocco): recent rotations

Remanent magnetization analysis of Plio-Quaternary lavas from the Middle At las mountains reveals the presence of a primary component, partially overpr inted by a secondary magnetization. The stable direction of the samples is north-east directed (D = 28.6 degrees, I= 42.4 degrees, alpha(95) = 5.7 deg rees) and is carried by magnetite. The observed paleodeclination, compared with the predicted one, indicates a 25 degrees clockwise relation of the vo lcanic province. The rotation seems proportional to the volcano age and fit s with the orientation of faults oblique to the direction of compression re lated to the Europe-Africa convergence. (C) Academie des sciences/ Elsevier , Paris.