Numerical modeling of eastern Tibetan-type margin: Influences of surface processes, lithospheric structure and crustal rheology

Abstract

The eastern Tibetan margin is characterized by a steep topographic gradient and remarkably lateral variations in crustal/lithospheric structure and thermal state. GPS measurements show that the surface convergence rate in this area is strikingly low. How can such a mountain range grow without significant upper crustal shortening? In order to investigate the formation mechanism of the eastern Tibetan-type margins, we conducted 2D numerical simulations based on finite difference and marker-in-cell techniques. The numerical models were constrained with geological and geophysical observations in the eastern Tibetan margin. Several major parameters responsible for topography building, such as the convergence rate, the erosion/sediment rate, and the presence of partially molten crust, were systematically examined. The results indicate that the presence of partially molten material in the middle/lower crust can make a positive contribution to the formation of steep topography, but it is not a necessary factor. A steep topographic gradient may be a characteristic feature when a thin lithosphere with thick crust converges with a thick lithosphere with thin crust. In the context of a high erosion rate, the Longmen Shan range still gains and maintains its steep high topography to the present. This could be explained by exerting a large push force on Tibet side. Our numerical experiments suggest that topographic characteristic across the eastern Tibetan-type margins is mainly derived from isostatic equilibration forces and intensive convergence between two continental lithospheres with totally different rheological properties.