Physical and mathematical modeling dynamic pressure forces and viscous stresses in lithospheric subduction zones

Abstract

Subject of research: zones of active tectonic processes in the mantle affecting lithospheric blocks and boundaries of density inhomogeneities. Purpose of research: to study the role of forces of dynamic non-hydrostatic pressure and viscous stresses acting in lithospheric subduction zones through physical and mathematical modeling. Method of research: is the application of numerical thermodynamic modeling of the tectonic structure of the lithosphere and asthenosphere in the subduction zone. Main results of research: the relative role of dynamic pressure is shown to predominate in the zones characterized by horizontally elongated mantle flows in the asthenosphere beneath the horizontally extended oceanic and continental plates. However, under micro-plates and in the vicinity of their boundaries the effects of dynamic pressure and viscous stresses are comparable. In the zones of thermal diapirs the role of viscous stresses prevails.