Geodynamics

Coexisting Forces in Geodynamic Modelling: Pros, Cons, and Synergies of Analogue and Numerical Modelling

Wouter Schellart and edited by Nuno Rodrigues October 16, 2024

3D mantle flow imaged using the stereoscopic PIV technique in analogue models of slab rollover subduction (a, b) and slab rollback subduction (c, d). Adapted from Strak, Xue & Schellart (2024).

Geodynamic modelling helps us understand Earth’s internal processes by providing a framework to test hypotheses. Analogue modelling uses physical models governed by the laws of nature, with resolution down to Planck’s length. In contrast, numerical modelling employs mathematical methods to approximate solutions to the physical laws governing Earth’s processes. Each modelling approach comes with it ...[Read More]

Between the Volcano and the Deep Blue Sea: Tales from Montserrat (Part 1)

Lorenzo Mantiloni, edited by Michaël Pons and edited by Constanza Rodriguez Piceda October 9, 2024

A view of Soufrière Hills Volcano from the Montserrat Volcano Observatory, May 16th, 2024.

In 1995, the Caribbean Island of Montserrat was shaken by the beginning of one of the most significant volcanic eruptions in recent history: one that profoundly changed the natural, social and economical landscape of the country. Three decades later, Soufrière Hills Volcano and its legacy of destruction still shape the lives of Montserrat’s people. Join us on the first part of our reportage and fi ...[Read More]

What’s the role of hotspot and oceanic transform faults at ultraslow spreading ridge?

edited by Yinuo Zhang and edited by Constanza Rodriguez Piceda October 4, 2024

Figure 1. Topographic map of the Mohns Ridge. The white double lines denote the axis of 17 ridge segments. (modified from Zhang et al., 2023)

Mid-ocean ridges (MOR) and hotspots are two types of magmatic activity occurring in the ocean. The MORs are typically associated with another tectonic feature—oceanic transform faults. While numerous studies have focused on the interactions within MORs, hotspots, and transform faults, there has been limited research on cases where a hotspot and a transform fault are located at the same end ...[Read More]

The Sassy Scientist – Academic Motion Sickness

The Sassy Scientist September 25, 2024

The first year of a PhD can quickly shift from an exciting adventure (“Ok I got this“) to an exasperating rollercoaster (“What I am doing here? What if I just move to a husky farm in Canada?“). Marina, has reached that stage and, after having exhausted her patience scrolling through <insert your preferred social media platorm here> in search of threads on how to boost ...[Read More]