Forearcöv

Forearcöv is a geological term referring to the region of the Earth's crust situated between a volcanic arc and an oceanic trench. This region forms as a result of a convergent plate boundary where oceanic lithosphere subducts beneath continental or other oceanic lithosphere. The forearcöv is characterized by compressional stress, which can lead to the formation of thrust faults and folds.

The forearcöv typically consists of a complex mixture of sediments eroded from the overriding plate and volcanic material from the arc. Sediments are often transported by turbidity currents and deposited in the trench and along the slope of the forearcöv. The volcanic arc itself is a chain of volcanoes that forms parallel to the subduction zone, fueled by the melting of the subducting slab.

Geologically, the forearcöv can be divided into several sub-regions: the trench, the trench slope break, the forearc basin, and the volcanic arc. The trench is the deepest part of the forearcöv, where sediments accumulate. The trench slope break marks a transition in gradient. The forearc basin, if present, is a region of sediment accumulation between the trench and the volcanic arc. The forearcöv is a dynamic environment, subject to earthquakes, volcanic activity, and significant sediment deposition.