geodynamics

A New Look at the Rheology of Deep Subduction Zones

Ana Lorena Abila and edited by Betti Hegyi November 27, 2024

Field photos of shear zones from Syros Island, Greece. Photo credit: Ana Lorena Abila

Subduction zones are dynamic regions where intense geological processes like earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and the recycling of oceanic crust are constantly at play. A key factor that influences the behavior of these zones is *interface rheology*—the strength and viscosity of the boundary (the interface) between the subducting and overriding plates. Understanding this interface is crucial for i ...[Read More]

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]

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]

Geekology #1: Matplotlib for geosciences, tips and tricks

Baptiste Bordet and Pauline Gayrin September 11, 2024

Geekology #1, drawing by Lea Pennac.

This week inaugurates a new series of posts: Geekology, fusion of geek and geology. In this section, we will try to unravel tips and tricks of programming applied to geodynamics, from new innovative libraries to good programming practices, interviews with geologists who code and more! To kick off the series, this week’s article is written in collaboration with Baptiste Bordet, doctoral resea ...[Read More]