Gravity analysis offshore the Canary Islands from a systematic survey

Abstract

As part of a systematic mapping program of the Hydrographic and Oceanographic Research Plan for the Spanish Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), gravity surveys were carried out offshore the Canary Islands. Using the gravity data collected during cruises between 1998 and 2000 aboard the RV Hesperides and satellite and land data, we construct free air and Bouguer anomaly maps and discuss the geodynamic implications. Using maps of Bouguer anomaly, free air anomaly, vertical derivative, long wavelength Bouguer anomaly and short wavelength anomaly, a detailed description of the gravity characteristics of the archipelago is presented, describing gravity anomalies from a geologic point of view. The character of the crust throughout the studied area has been defined, as well as high gradient zones that limit crustal blocks of different density. High gradient zones have been mapped for the first time and interpreted as fracture zones, taking into account geophysical and geological information. Gravity highs and lows have been studied and related to crustal, mantle and volcanic effects.