Fig. 5: Genetic model linking oceanic subduction and continental collision to porphyry copper formation.
From: Redox state of subducted sediments controls porphyry copper mineralization along the Tethyan belt
a Subduction of reduced, organic matter-rich sediments decreases oxygen fugacity, causing chalcophile elements to accumulate in the lower crust and inhibiting porphyry mineralization. b Subduction of oxidized continental sediments increases oxygen fugacity, converting residual sulfides in the lower crust to sulfates and releasing metals, thereby enabling porphyry mineralization.
