Photoferrotrophic Bacteria Initiated Plate Tectonics in the Neoarchean

Zhang, Shengxing; Li, Yiliang; Leng, Wei; Gurnis, Michael

doi:10.1029/2023gl103553

Cited by 6 publications

(1 citation statement)

References 52 publications

(122 reference statements)

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“…Subduction of cold and heavy oceanic lithosphere drives motions of tectonic plates and sustains the Wilson Cycle (Wilson, 1966) on plate‐tectonic Earth (Forsyth & Uyeda, 1975; Stern, 2018) but it is still vague where and how new subduction starts (Cloetingh et al., 2021; Crameri et al., 2020; Gerya et al., 2015; Gurnis, 2023; Hall, 2019; Lallemand & Arcay, 2021; Rey et al., 2014; Stern & Gerya, 2018; Zhang et al., 2023). Passive margins, where the coldest and heaviest oceanic lithosphere on Earth meets the continental lithosphere, have been considered as favorable sites for subduction initiation (SI) (Cloetingh et al., 1989; Nikolaeva et al., 2011; Niu, 2003).…”

Section: Introductionmentioning

confidence: 99%

Continental Tip With Thinned Lithosphere and Thickened Crust Is a Favorable Location for Subduction Initiation

Zhang,

Leng,

Chen

2023

JGR Solid Earth

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The collapse of passive margins and subsequent subduction initiation (SI) are key steps in the Wilson Cycle. However, the occurrence and mechanism of SI at passive margins have long been questioned due to the lack of Cenozoic observations. In this study, we propose that the continental tip, where arc/plateau blocks with thinned lithosphere and thickened crust accrete beside the passive margin, is a favorable location for SI. Our three‐dimensional numerical model and force analysis demonstrate that the continental tip, with its reduced frictional resistance and increased gravitational instability, is better suited for SI than other parts of the passive margin. Upon completion of SI, the retreat of self‐sustained subduction can create a transform plate boundary by tearing the passive margin. Our model explains why SI can occur at continental tips such as the Scotia and the Caribbean, as well as locations with similar tectonic settings, while most parts of the Atlantic margin remain stable over long geological periods.

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