Abstract
Surface heat flow gives direct information about geothermal gradient, but it is significantly affected by erosion and sedimentation. The rate of erosion (sedimentation) is generally in proportion to elevation. Following such an idea, first, we examined the relation between observed surface heat flow and elevation along each of three lines crossing the northernmost, northeastern and southwestern parts of Japan, and found a clear positive correlation between them. The good correlation indicates essential importance of the effects of erosion and sedimentation on surface heat flow. Next, assuming the linear dependence of erosion rates on elevation, we calculated the profiles of surface heat flow expected from the surface topography with a 2‐D thermal conduction model. The results of calculation well explain gross features of the observed heat flow profiles, but some systematic differences still remain. From these systematic differences we can extract unbiased information about thermal state at depth.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
