Structure and Tectonic Evolution of the Afar Triple Junction with Special Reference to the Red Sea: Constraints from Geophysical Data

The convergence of the Main Ethiopian Rift, Red Sea, and Gulf of Aden at the Afar triple junction provides a unique opportunity to examine the early stages of divergence influenced by distant forces and a deep-seated mantle plume. This thesis uses geophysical data and modeling techniques to analyze the varying lithospheric structure of these divergent boundaries. Through this study, valuable insights into the area's evolution and the significance of the Afar mantle plume emerge. Notably, the research focuses on the lithospheric structure and extensional characteristics of the contentious southern arm of the Red Sea, attributing the observed asymmetries to the presence of melt channels originating from the Afar mantle plume.