Influence of the Thickness of the Overriding Plate on Convergence Zone Dynamics.

ABSTRACT: The important role played by the upper plate in convergence zones dynamics has long been underestimated but is now more and more emphasized. However, the influence of its thickness and/or strength on orogenic systems evolution remains largely unknown. Here we present results from 3D thermo-mechanical numerical simulations of convergence zones (including oceanic subduction followed by continental subduction/collision), in which we vary the rheological profile of the overriding plate (OP). For this, we systematically modify the crustal thickness of the overriding lithosphere and the temperature at the Moho to obtain a thermal thickness of the overriding lithosphere ranging from 80 to 180 km. While all models share a common global evolution (i.e., slab sinking, interaction between slab and th

SUBMITTER: Hertgen S 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC7375164 | biostudies-literature | 2020 Feb

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature