Thermal Evolution of the Oceanic Lithosphere Along the Western Coast of Africa: A Comparative Analysis of Cooling Models.

Abstract

This study investigates the evolution of the oceanic lithosphere along 
the Western Coast of Africa by evaluating two prominent theoretical 
models: the half-space cooling model and the plate model. Through a 
detailed analysis of geothermal behavior, the research explores the 
variations in predicted temperature structures and their implications 
for lithospheric dynamics. The findings reveal distinct thermal 
patterns, with elevated temperatures observed beneath the ocean 
ridges, consistent with active magmatic processes. As the lithosphere 
moves away from the ridge axis, a clear cooling trend is identified, 
aligning with the theoretical predictions of both models. However, 
discrepancies arise in the rate and extent of cooling, particularly at 
greater distances from the ridge, suggesting limitations in the 
assumptions of the half-space cooling model. The plate model, 
incorporating a fixed basal temperature provides a more robust 
framework for explaining the observed thermal gradients. These 
insights enhance our understanding of lithospheric evolution and have 
significant implications for plate tectonics, mantle dynamics, and 
geothermal resource potential in the region. The study underscores the 
importance of integrating observational data with theoretical models to 
refine our knowledge of Earth's thermal and mechanical processes.