Crustal evolution of an ore district illustrated – 4D-animation from the Skellefte district, Sweden

This paper exemplifies how the dynamic crustal evolution within geologically complex areas, such as the Palaeoproterozoic VMS-hosting Skellefte district in northern Sweden, may be illustrated by 4D-animations. Furthermore, the paper gives a brief description on how the animation was constructed. The modeled steps through the geological evolution include crustal extension accommodated by normal faults, synchronous volcanism and VMS deposition, block rotations and erosion post-dating the volcanism, deposition of post-volcanic sediments and, finally, inversion of the early normal faults and the related development of upright folds. Specific emphasis is put on illustrating how the originally stratabound VMS sheets were transposed into contrasting geometries depending on erosional features and variations in the tectonic overprint. Summing up, 4D-animations provide a powerful tool for sharing the scientific results and for use in educational purposes.