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Updated: Aug 12, 2026
06:55
Kinematic History of a Salient-recess Junction Explored through a Combined Approach of Field Data and Analog Sandbox Modeling
Published on: August 5, 2016
Mantle-circulation models with sequential data assimilation: inferring present-day mantle structure from plate-motion
Hans-Peter Bunge1, M A Richards, J R Baumgardner
1Department of Geosciences, Princeton University, NJ 08544, USA. bunge@princeton.edu
Summary
Data assimilation in geodynamic models uses plate motion history to study mantle flow. Models show subduction influences mantle structure, but deep mantle evolution requires backward extrapolation methods.
Area of Science:
- Geophysics
- Earth Science
- Computational Geodynamics
Background:
- Mantle circulation models require data assimilation to reconcile observables with governing equations.
- Plate motion history is crucial for constraining mantle flow and buoyancy forces from subducted slabs.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present five mantle circulation models assimilating plate motion history over the past 120 million years.
- To investigate mantle flow and heterogeneity using seismic tomography and plate motion data.
Main Methods:
- Data assimilation of plate motion history (Mesozoic-Cenozoic, 120 Myr).
- Development and comparison of five distinct mantle circulation models.
- Analysis of seismic tomography data for upper- and mid-mantle heterogeneity.
Main Results:
- Models align well with observed upper- and mid-mantle heterogeneity.
- Whole-mantle convection models with internal heat generation show downwellings linked to Farallon and Tethys subduction.
- Increased viscosity or bottom heating significantly alters mantle structure and thermal boundary layers.
Conclusions:
- Sequential assimilation of plate motion is limited for deep mantle evolution (below 1500 km) due to age constraints.
- Extrapolation methods, like backward convection calculations or iterative optimization, are needed for long-term deep mantle studies.
- Adjoint mantle convection models are essential for rigorous backward extrapolation of assimilated information.
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