Premium
Influence of surrounding plates on 3D subduction dynamics
Author(s) -
Yamato P.,
Husson L.,
Braun J.,
Loiselet C.,
Thieulot C.
Publication year - 2009
Publication title -
geophysical research letters
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 2.007
H-Index - 273
eISSN - 1944-8007
pISSN - 0094-8276
DOI - 10.1029/2008gl036942
Subject(s) - subduction , geology , lithosphere , slab , trench , slab window , plate tectonics , seismology , convergent boundary , geophysics , oceanic crust , tectonics , layer (electronics) , chemistry , organic chemistry
Our 3D modelling study shows that the presence of lithospheric plates around a subducting plate has a significant influence on subduction dynamics, in particular on trench retreat rate, slab dip, and lateral shortening of the subducting plate. Neighbouring plates prevent unrealistic plate behaviour with no need for complex rheologies. Because, at the Earth's surface, plates form a continuous shell, they should not be neglected.