Modeling the Dispersion of Plume Heads Beneath Ridges and the Growth of Large Igneous Provinces

University Of Rhode Island, Kingston RI

Investigators

Abstract

This study will use a combination of numerical and laboratory (analog) models to investigate the dispersal and interaction between plume heads and the overlying lithospheric plates upon which they impinge. Models will include the effects of melting, on and off-axis cases, and the influence of ridge segmentation and plate rheology on along-axis flow. Models include both 2D and 3D numerical models and 3D scaled analog ones. The modeling will include both plume heads (LIPs), and their more steady-state tails. In general, the experiments will explore the thermal, compositional, and dynamic evolution of plume heads for a range of conditions. More specific models will examine the case of the Ontong-Java plateau system- the earth's largest known plume head. The modeling efforts are part of a cycle of observations, theory, predictions, more observation which is expected to lead to specific ODP drilling proposals.