A simple, one-dimensional extensional model can explain the major features of the northeastern United States Atlantic continental margin. The extensional model allows us to predict the subsidence history of the margin and we compare that prediction with well data. Tectonic-subsidence observations indicate that the COST B-2 and B-3 wells are over highly thinned continental or oceanic crust, while the G-1 and G-2 wells are over continental crust that experienced less thinning.

A two-dimensional finite difference numerical scheme for simulating the thermal and mechanical evolution of a basin supports an extensional origin for the Baltimore Canyon trough. The simulation provides time-temperature history predictions for the sediments. From these we conclude that the trough should contain a significant volume of thermally mature sediments that are more likely to have generated natural gas than oil.