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Slab detachment in continental collision zones: An analysis of controlling parameters
Author(s) -
Wong A Ton S. Y. M.,
Wortel M. J. R.
Publication year - 1997
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 - 10.1029/97gl01939
Subject(s) - lithosphere , slab , geology , subduction , collision zone , continental collision , collision , seismology , eclogitization , geophysics , tectonics , oceanic crust , computer security , computer science
During the early stages of continental collision when continental lithosphere is subducted after a prolonged period of normal oceanic subduction, changes in the temperature distribution and stress field of the subducting lithosphere can lead to failure within the lithosphere, and result in detachment of the deeper portion of subducted lithosphere (slab detachment or slab breakoff). We use a 2D time‐dependent numerical model to identify the parameters controlling slab detachment and to estimate breakoff depths and time lengths. Temperature and rheology of subducting continental lithosphere are found to control slab detachment.