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Onset of double subduction controls plate motion reorganisation

Author

Listed:
  • Kuidi Zhang

    (Sun Yat-Sen University)

  • Jie Liao

    (Sun Yat-Sen University
    Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Zhuhai)
    Guangdong Provincial Key Lab of Geodynamics and Geohazards)

  • Taras Gerya

    (Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Zurich)

Abstract

Face-to-face double subduction systems, in which two oceanic plates subduct toward each other, are essential elements of plate tectonics. Two subduction zones in such systems are typically uneven in age and their spatially and temporally variable dynamics remain enigmatic. Here, with 2D numerical modelling, we demonstrate that the onset of the younger subduction zone strongly changes the dynamics of the older subduction zone. The waxing younger subduction may gradually absorb plate convergence from the older one, resulting in older subduction waning featured by the dramatic decrease in subduction rate and trench retreat. The dynamical transformation of subduction predominance alters the intraplate stress and mantle flow, regulating the relative motion among the three different plates. The process of waxing and waning of subduction zones controls plate motion reorganisation, providing a reference to interpret the past, present, and future evolution of several key double subduction regions found on the modern Earth.

Suggested Citation

  • Kuidi Zhang & Jie Liao & Taras Gerya, 2024. "Onset of double subduction controls plate motion reorganisation," Nature Communications, Nature, vol. 15(1), pages 1-9, December.
    • Handle: RePEc:nat:natcom:v:15:y:2024:i:1:d:10.1038_s41467-024-44764-8
    DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-44764-8
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    References listed on IDEAS

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