A genetic link between transform and hyper-extended margins

- High-resolution 3D thermo-mechanical models now permit to model details of large offset transfer zones between propagating rifts.
- Propagating rift segments can stall for 15 million years before oblique break-off occurs.
- Large amount of deformation occurs at their tip resulting in hyper-extension over 200 km.
- Strong continental lower crust favours linkage at larger off-set.
- Reconstruction of plate motion at the edge of transform segment must be done in two stages.