The Definition, Classification and Development of Ophiolites

The basic tenet of the 1972 Penrose definition is that an ideal ophiolites has a layer-cake pseudostratigraphy with whole and specific sequence. However, consequent studies have found that the structures and geochemical features of ophiolites are variable due to different geodynamic settings and tectonic processes involved in its formation. The diversity is obviously beyond the typical definition of ophiolites. Continuous researches were conducted thereafter, and a new definition and classification of the ophiolites have been put forward based on decades of studies, covering all kinds of ophiolites found. Moreover, the new research findings explain the hypostasis of ophiolite formation, and points out that there will be diverse ophiolites in Wilson cycle.