The most significant gravity anomaly associated with Puerto Rico is found in the Puerto Rico Trench, measuring a remarkable -380 milliGal. This figure represents the most negative gravity anomaly recorded anywhere on Earth.
Understanding This Significant Anomaly
This exceptionally low gravity reading is a direct indicator of profound geological forces at play. The large negative value signifies the presence of a powerful, active downward force within the Earth's crust in this region. This downward force is a key characteristic of the processes occurring at the Puerto Rico Trench, which is an oceanic trench located north of Puerto Rico and the deepest point in the Atlantic Ocean.
- Magnitude: -380 milliGal, making it the most negative gravity anomaly globally.
- Location: Primarily associated with the deep Puerto Rico Trench.
- Implication: Indicates intense downward geological forces, often linked to subduction zone dynamics or significant crustal thinning and bending.
Geological Context of the Anomaly
The intense geological activity responsible for such a prominent gravity anomaly also influences the surrounding landmass of Puerto Rico. Evidence of this geological dynamism can be observed in the island's structure, where a thick limestone platform, originally deposited in flat layers near sea level, is now noticeably tilted northward at a uniform angle. This tilting is a direct consequence of the powerful tectonic forces exerted by the downward pull and other movements associated with the trench system.
Key Anomaly Details
To summarize the critical aspects of this unique gravitational feature:
| Feature | Gravity Anomaly (milliGal) | Significance | Geological Context |
|---|---|---|---|
| Puerto Rico Trench | -380 | Most negative on Earth | Active downward force, contributes to regional geological tilting |
This extreme anomaly provides scientists with crucial insights into the complex interactions between tectonic plates and the underlying mantle in the Caribbean region.
