GD
Geodynamics

numerical modelling

Application of lubrication theory in understanding subduction interface dynamics

August 3, 2022
Application of lubrication theory in understanding subduction interface dynamics
Figure 1. Analogy of a) subduction interface with b) engineering lubrication device (source: machinerylubrication.com).

Plate interface lubrication is essential for stabilization and continuation of subduction process for million of years. The magnitude of plate interface lubrication determines transfer of stress between two converging plates, topography of mountain belts, transportation of volatiles to the mantle, and return flow of high to ultra-high pressure rocks to the earth’s surface.  In this week’s blog, I ...[Read More]

Journey of the Indian plate

March 30, 2022
Journey of the Indian plate
From the top of one of the largest monoliths in the Southern Indian craton | PC: Samik Sadhu | https://samiksadhu.weebly.com

Plume craton interaction is a fascinating geological phenomenon. The Indian plate, which has experienced several plume eruptions underneath it, is one of the best locations to study the effect of plume craton interaction. In this week’s news and view, I will provide an overview of the controversy and hypotheses related to the plume craton interaction within the Indian plate since the mid-Cre ...[Read More]

Orphaning: Discovering New Subduction Processes

and November 24, 2021
Orphaning: Discovering New Subduction Processes
Figure 1: P-Wave tomography by Obayashi et al. (2013) and Fukao & Obayashi (2013) for Tonga. Note the deflected slab at 660 km depth underlain by deeper slab material, possibly orphan slabs.

Science is all about discovering new things. But how do we make these discoveries, adding to the ever growing pantheon of knowledge? This week, we sit with one of our editors Antoniette Greta Grima, a Postdoctoral Fellow from the University of Texas at Austin, to understand what it takes to discover a new slab process.  Thanks for sitting down with us this week! First things first, which subductio ...[Read More]

The Sassy Scientist – Uncertain Certainties For A Certain Uncertainty

October 8, 2021
The Sassy Scientist – Uncertain Certainties For A Certain Uncertainty

Whilst in constant debate with himself on how to address his own insecurities, Harry dabbles in the secret art of interdisciplinary studies. Specifically, mechano-thermo-chemical modeling with the input from experimental studies. Trying to move forward, he struggles: How can we combine all the uncertainties on experimental rock studies with modelling studies? Dear Harry, We can only try. Yours tru ...[Read More]