Subduction

Subduction zone initiation reconstructions

Subduction zone initiation (SZI) reconstructions for selected events since around 100 Ma. The reconstructed events are based on the whole Earth Sciences community point-of-view of the SZI database.

Slab tearing (sketch)

Sketch of laterally progressing slab detachment and resulting inflow of asthenospheric material into the opening gap.

Subduction diversity

Subduction diversity on the Earth represented by variable observed parameters.

Subduction earthquakes (crosssection)

Vertical crosssection through the Japan subduction zone highlighting large, subduction-related earthquakes recorded over the last decades and the spatial distribution of their hypocentres.

Subduction zones (map)

Map of subduction zones on the Earth.

Puysegur trench formation

A schematic highlighting the formation of the Puysegur trench, New Zealand, where subduction zone initiation may be both horizontally and then vertically driven, according to a 4D evolution model of this margin.

Global-scale mantle flow (sketch)

A sketch outlining the link between the viscous convection within the Earth’s mantle and tectonic surface plate motions.

Subduction zone initiation types

Illustration of the three types of subduction zone initiation (SZI) events, namely Newly destructive, Episodic subduction, and Polarity reversal.

Subduction zone initiation forcing

Illustration of the two endmember forcing states, namely vertically and horizontally driven, characterising subduction zone initiation (SZI).