Mechanical (de-)coupling of the lithosphere in the Valencia Trough (NW Mediterranean): what does it mean?

Details Mechanical (de-)coupling of the lithosphere in the Valencia Trough (NW Mediterranean): what does it mean? Mechanical (de-)coupling of the lithosphere in the Valencia Trough (NW Mediterranean): what does it mean?

May 2003

adsabs.harvard.edu/cgi-bin/nph-data_query?bibcode=2003e%26psl.210..291g&link_type=abstract

Earth and Planetary Science Letters, Volume 210, Issue 1-2, p. 291-303.

Mathematics

Logic

5

Lithospheric Decoupling, Nw Mediterranean, Numerical Modelling, Valencia Trough

Scientific paper

We study the mechanics of lithospheric decoupling in continental extensional basins in relation to the distribution of (non-)competent mechanical layers within the lithosphere and the position of the isostatic compensation level. We specifically address the different modes of deformation taking place in crustal levels according to a self-consistent formulation of the concept of mechanical decoupling. Subsequently, we investigate the style of lithospheric decoupling in the Valencia Trough (NW Mediterranean), a prime example of a young continental rift basin. During its evolution, the lower crust (or at least part of it) acted as a weak, non-competent layer that eventually flowed laterally to accommodate deformation in the subcrustal lithosphere and overlying crust, which became mechanically decoupled. We use a numerical model to discern whether these two layers deformed fully independently (vertical decoupling), or maintaining a mechanical link (horizontal and partial decoupling). Results of our study, constrained by a high-quality database, exclude fully decoupled mode and favor isostatic compensation level in the asthenosphere. Interpretation of our results in light of geological and geophysical data suggests that the present Valencia Trough is best described by partial lithospheric decoupling.

Affiliated with

Also associated with

No associations

Rating

Mechanical (de-)coupling of the lithosphere in the Valencia Trough (NW Mediterranean): what does it mean? does not yet have a rating. At this time, there are no reviews or comments for this scientific paper.

If you have personal experience with Mechanical (de-)coupling of the lithosphere in the Valencia Trough (NW Mediterranean): what does it mean?, we encourage you to share that experience with our LandOfFree.com community. Your opinion is very important and Mechanical (de-)coupling of the lithosphere in the Valencia Trough (NW Mediterranean): what does it mean? will most certainly appreciate the feedback.

Rate now

Comments { 0 }

Profile ID: LFWR-SCP-O-1523581