Geology of the Alps |
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Tectonic subdivision |
Formation & rocks |
Geological structures |
Paleogeographic terminology |
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The Penninic nappes or the Penninicum, commonly abbreviated as Penninic, are one of three nappe stacks and geological zones in which the Alps can be divided. In the western Alps the Penninic nappes are more obviously present than in the eastern Alps (in Austria), where they crop out as a narrow band. The name Penninic is derived from the Pennine Alps, an area in which rocks from the Penninic nappes are abundant.
Of the three nappe stacks the Penninic nappes have the highest metamorphic grade. They contain high grade metamorphic rocks of different paleogeographic origins. They were deposited as sediments on the crust that existed between the European and Apulian plates before the Alps were formed. They are characteristically ophiolite sequences and deep marine sediments, metamorphosed to phyllites, schists and amphibolites.
Middle Penninic nappes include the Monte Rosa, Mont Fort, Siviez-Mischabel, Cimes Blanches and Frilihorn, of European origin. Upper Penninic nappes include the Zermatt-Saas and Tsaté, of oceanic origin and the Dent Blanche nappe (Austroalpine), of African origin.[1]
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