Mechanics of Continental Extension and Margin Formation

本建议的目的是发展有限元 研究预先存在的薄弱区的影响的模型， 大陆总机械性能的变化 岩石圈在控制大陆裂解过程中的作用。 两 将使用的二维模型类型：横截面，平面应变 模型来调查薄弱区的作用， 研究沿走向变化作用的席状模型 在机械性能方面。 总的构造沉降将是 用于估计预扩散扩展的量， 拉布拉多海和中大西洋盆地的边缘。 像这样的理论研究是重要的， 了解地球演化的基本过程 地壳：大陆是如何分裂的。

The purpose of this proposal is to develop finite element models to study the effect of pre-existing zones of weakness and variations in gross mechanical properties in the continental lithosphere in controlling the continental breakup process. Two types of two-D models will be used: cross-sectional, plane-strain models to investigate the role of zones of weakness, and thin sheet models to investigate the role of along-strike variations in mechanical properties.. Total tectonic subsidence will be used to estimate the amount of pre-spreading extension of the margins of the Labrador Sea and Central Atlantic basins. Theoretcial studies such as this are important in order to understand a fundamental process in the evolution of the earths crust: how continents break apart.