Principle of Hydrogen Isotope Geochemistry Paleo-altimeter and its Potential in Reconstructing Paleo-elevation of the Southeastern Tibetan Plateau

Abstract

The reconstruction of paleo-elevation serves a dual purpose to enhance our comprehension of geodynamic processes affecting terrestrial landforms and to contribute significantly to the interpretation of atmospheric circulation and biodiversity. The oxygen (δ¹⁸O_w) and deuterium (δD_w) isotopes in atmospheric precipitation are systematically depleted with the increase of altitude, which are typical and widely applicated paleo-altimeters. The utilization of hydrogen isotope of hydrous silicate minerals within the shear zone system, volcanic glass, and plant leaf wax alkanes offers valuable insights for addressing evaporation and diagenesis. In this paper, we review the principle, application conditions, and influencing factors of the hydrogen isotope paleo-altimeter. In addition, we discuss the feasibility of utilizing this technique for quantitatively estimating the paleo-elevation of the southeastern Tibetan Plateau, where multiple shear zones extend over hundred kilometers parallel to the topographic gradient.

Keywords

paleo-elevation / hydrogen isotope / hydrous silicate minerals / volcanic glass / Tibetan Plateau

RIGHTS & PERMISSIONS

2024 Geological Society of China