How collision triggers backarc extension: Insight into Mediterranean style of extension from 3-D numerical models

Magni, V.; Faccenna, C.; van Hunen, J.; Funiciello, F.

doi:10.1130/g35446.1

How collision triggers backarc extension: Insight into Mediterranean style of extension from 3-D numerical models

Magni, V.; Faccenna, C.; van Hunen, J.; Funiciello, F.

Authors

V. Magni

C. Faccenna

Professor Jeroen Van Hunen jeroen.van-hunen@durham.ac.uk
Professor

F. Funiciello

Abstract

The formation and evolution of a backarc basin are linked to the dynamics of the subduction system. The opening of the central Mediterranean basins is a well-documented example of backarc extension characterized by short-lived episodes of spreading. The underlying reasons for this episodicity are obscured by the complexity of this subduction system, in which multiple continental blocks enter the subduction zone. We present results from three-dimensional numerical models of laterally varying subduction to explain the mechanism of backarc basin opening and the episodic style of spreading. Our results show that efficient backarc extension can be obtained with an along-trench variation in slab buoyancy that produces localized deformation within the overriding plate. We observe peaks in the trench retreating velocity corresponding first to the opening of the backarc basin, and later to the formation of slab windows. We suggest that the observed episodic trench retreat behavior in the central Mediterranean is caused by the formation of slab windows.

Citation

Magni, V., Faccenna, C., van Hunen, J., & Funiciello, F. (2014). How collision triggers backarc extension: Insight into Mediterranean style of extension from 3-D numerical models. Geology, 42(6), 511-514. https://doi.org/10.1130/g35446.1

Journal Article Type	Article
Acceptance Date	Mar 18, 2014
Online Publication Date	Apr 10, 2014
Publication Date	Jun 1, 2014
Deposit Date	May 20, 2014
Publicly Available Date	Nov 12, 2014
Journal	Geology
Print ISSN	0091-7613
Electronic ISSN	1943-2682
Publisher	Geological Society of America
Peer Reviewed	Peer Reviewed
Volume	42
Issue	6
Pages	511-514
DOI	https://doi.org/10.1130/g35446.1
Publisher URL	http://geology.geoscienceworld.org/content/42/6/511.full?ijkey=C8LC4cg0BQbyg&keytype=ref&siteid=gsgeology