craton Definition
the stable interior portion of a continent characterized by old rocks and a low seismic activity.
Using craton: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "craton" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The Canadian Shield is the largest craton in North America.
Example
The African craton is one of the oldest on Earth.
Example
The Siberian craton is rich in diamonds.
craton Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for craton
- continental shield
- basement complex
Phrases with craton
Example
The Superior Province in Canada is an Archean craton.
a craton that formed during the Proterozoic Eon, between 2.5 billion and 541 million years ago
Example
The Kalahari Craton in southern Africa is a Proterozoic craton.
a craton that formed during the Phanerozoic Eon, between 541 million years ago and the present
Example
The Baltic Shield in northern Europe is a Phanerozoic craton.
Summary: craton in Brief
A 'craton' [ˈkreɪtɒn] is the stable interior portion of a continent, characterized by old rocks and low seismic activity. It is also known as a 'continental shield' or 'basement complex.' Examples include the Canadian Shield, the African craton, and the Siberian craton. Cratons can be classified by the eon they formed in, such as the Archean, Proterozoic, and Phanerozoic cratons.
