Wide-angle seismic reflection/refraction data, recorded on ten seismographs
from five large explosive charges, clearly define the crustal and upper ma
ntle velocities of the Makarov Basin. These data are combined with a tangen
tial seismic reflection profile and with Russian navy refraction velocities
to produce a seafloor to upper mantle velocity-depth function. The gently
dipping sedimentary horizons contrast with the hummocky basement topography
on the reflection profile. The seismic basement is interpreted as oceanic
layer 2 consistent with the Russian navy velocities. Velocities of 6.7 km s
(-1) determined for the lower crust and 8.0 km s(-1) for the upper mantle a
re constrained by the seismic record sections. The 6.7 km s(-1) velocity la
yer is interpreted as oceanic crust layer 3. The well-resolved thickness of
this layer of 15 km is substantially greater than the average thickness fo
r layer 3 of 4 km. The velocities and thickness from the Makarov Basin, oce
anic plateaus and hotspots, and continental crust are summarized for compar
ison. The character of seismic reflection basement and the velocity-depth f
unction are consistent with thick oceanic crust in the Makarov Basin. (C) 1
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