Tilted block faulting, also called rotational block faulting, is a mode of structural evolution in extensional tectonic events, a result of tectonic plates stretching apart.[1][2] When the upper lithospheric crust experiences extensional pressures, the brittle crust fractures, creating detachment faults.[3] These normal faults express themselves on a regional scale; upper crust fractures into tilted fault blocks, and ductile lower crust ascends.[1] This results in uplift, cooling, and exhumation of ductilely deformed deeper crust.[4] The large unit of tilted blocks and associated crust can form an integral part of metamorphic core complexes,[5] which are found on both continental and oceanic crust.[1][6]
^ abcdeWhitney, D. L.; Teyssier, C.; Rey, P.; Buck, W. R. (21 December 2012). "Continental and oceanic core complexes". Geological Society of America Bulletin. 125 (3–4): 273–298. doi:10.1130/B30754.1.