Errors in plate rotations as described by covariance matrices and their combination in reconstructions
The use of covariance matrices to describe the errors in plate rotations and to combine the contributions of individual plate pairs for plate reconstructions is discussed. Particular attention is given to finite rotations and the combination of covariance matrices for a circuit of successive plate pair rotations. Examples of errors in plate reconstructions in which the position of the Pacific plate relative to North America is reconstructed are presented.