Models of active glacial isostasy roofing warm subduction: Case of the South Patagonian Ice Field

Abstract

Modern geodetic techniques such as precise Global Positioning System (GPS) and high‐resolution space gravity mapping (Gravity Recovery and Climate Experiment, GRACE) make it possible to measure the present‐day rate of viscoelastic gravitational Earth response to present and past glacier mass changes. The Andes of Patagonia contain glacial environments of dramatic mass change. These mass load changes occur near a tectonically active boundary between the Antarctic and South American plates. The mechanical strength of the continental side of this boundary is influenced by Neogene ridge subduction and by the subduction of a youthful oceanic slab. A ridge of young volcanos parallels the Pacific coastline. Release of volatiles (such as water) at depth along this ridge creates a unique rheological environment. To assess the influence of this rheological ridge structure on the observational land uplift rate, we apply a two‐dimensional viscoelastic Earth model. A numerical study is presented which examines the sensitivity of the glacial loading‐unloading response to the complex structure at depth related to the subducting slab, the viscous wedge between slab and continental lithosphere, and the increase of elastic thickness from oceanic to continental lithosphere. A key feature revealed by our numerical experiments is a continuum flow wherein the slab subdues the material transport toward oceanic mantle and crust. The restricted flow is sensitive to the details of slab mechanical strength and penetration into the upper mantle. The reduced viscosity within the mantle wedge, however, enhances the load‐induced material transport everywhere within the asthenosphere.