Abstract
By means of a finite element algorithm we investigate the effects of lateral viscosity variations upon the horizontal motions currently detected by Very Long Baseline Interferometry (VLBI) in Europe. Our approach is based on a suite of flat Earth models including a layered compressible Maxwell mantle and regions of anomalous viscosity localized both in the lithosphere and in the upper mantle. A detailed study of horizontal velocities expected in the periphery of the Fennoscandia ice-sheet is followed by a comparison between VLBI data and model predictions. Our results show that the rates of horizontal deformations are greatly sensitive to both lateral viscosity variations and deep mantle stratification, especially close to the margins of the ice sheet. We have found that among the Earth models studied here, those including both lateral variations and a sharp increase of mantle viscosity across upper and lower mantle are the most suitable to ‘explain’ the rates of horizontal velocity currently observed in Europe.
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.
