Abstract
We have studied the influences of depth‐varying rheologies on the structure of mantle convection and the near surface flow fields. Upwelling flows crossing the upper‐lower mantle boundary become considerably thinner and faster. Streamlines are concentrated near the surface and other plate‐like characteristics are enhanced by this type of rheological stratification in which the averaged effective viscosity of the upper mantle is about two orders of magnitude lower than that of the lower mantle. The presence of a lithosphere with a higher non‐linear dependence in the flow law further promotes plate‐like behavior. Plate‐like character of the top boundary‐layer is encouraged by a decreasing depth‐dependent viscosity in the non‐Newtonian upper‐mantle and by greater convective vigor.
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.
