We conduct three-dimensional subduction experiments by a finite element approach to study flow around slabs, which are prescribed based on a transient stage of upper mantle subduction from a laboratory model. Instantaneous velocity field solutions are examined, focusing on the toroidal vs. poloidal components as a function of boundary conditions, plate width, and viscosity contrast between slab and mantle. We show how the slab-to-mantle viscosity ratio determines the strength of toroidal flow, and find that the toroidal flow component peaks for slab/mantle viscosity ratios !100, independent of slab width or geometry.
C., P., T. W., B., Funiciello, F., Faccenna, C. (2006). Three-dimensional instantaneous mantle flow induced by subduction. GEOPHYSICAL RESEARCH LETTERS, 33, doi:10.1029....
Three-dimensional instantaneous mantle flow induced by subduction
FUNICIELLO, FRANCESCA;FACCENNA, CLAUDIO
2006-01-01
Abstract
We conduct three-dimensional subduction experiments by a finite element approach to study flow around slabs, which are prescribed based on a transient stage of upper mantle subduction from a laboratory model. Instantaneous velocity field solutions are examined, focusing on the toroidal vs. poloidal components as a function of boundary conditions, plate width, and viscosity contrast between slab and mantle. We show how the slab-to-mantle viscosity ratio determines the strength of toroidal flow, and find that the toroidal flow component peaks for slab/mantle viscosity ratios !100, independent of slab width or geometry.I documenti in IRIS sono protetti da copyright e tutti i diritti sono riservati, salvo diversa indicazione.
