Quantitative Lab Modeling of Critical Wedge Dynamics

Suny At Stony Brook, Stony Brook NY

Investigators

Abstract

The PI has described a new technique for the automated analysis of strain in analog experiments. Using this technique, he propose to test a series of published analytical and numerical models for the behavior of critical wedges, both Coulomb and viscous, focusing upon three broad questions. These questions include: - the conditions for the formation of a double retrowedge, - the rheological and geometric constraints on the occurrence of extension in critical wedges - the strain and rotational signatures of a suite of proposed mechanisms for the formation of lobate mountain ranges In this modeling, he will emphasize: - the testing of specific predictions for critical wedge behavior based upon numerical and analog modeling, and - relating alternative models for the creation of arcuate mountain belts to specific geological observables (finite strains, slip vectors, geodetic strain rate patterns, structural traces) by which models might be discriminated from each other.