Transformational role in arc-shaped subduction orogenesis.

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Bibliographic Details
Title:	Transformational role in arc-shaped subduction orogenesis.
Authors:	Liu, Shaofeng¹ (AUTHOR) shaofeng@cugb.edu.cn
Source:	SCIENCE CHINA Earth Sciences. Dec2025, Vol. 68 Issue 12, p3950-3965. 16p.
Subjects:	Orogeny, Subduction, Neotectonics, Geological surveys, Fault zones
Abstract:	This study provides a comprehensive analysis of the transformational role and dynamic mechanisms in arc-shaped subduction orogenic belts, with a specific focus on their manifestations in regions such as the Mediterranean and the Caribbean. Current research highlights the control exerted by the negative buoyancy of subducting oceanic plates on subduction rates and their role in driving slab rollback. The feedback effects between trench retreat and tectonic transformation are identified as key mechanisms contributing to the curvature of orogenic belts. Simulation results indicate that the timing and distance of back-arc spreading center jumps in curved subduction zones are governed by the ratio of strength between transform faults and the overriding plate. Gravity-driven forces from subducting slabs are the primary drivers of arc curvature, tectonic transformations along subduction zones, the formation of transform faults, slab tearing, and even the rollback-driven invasion of curved subduction zones into Atlantic-type oceans. Geological evidence reveals that the development of transtensional or transpressional deformation in arc-shaped subduction orogenic belts results from the complex interactions between slab-rollbacked subduction and tectonic transformation within the overriding plate. This research not only enhances our understanding of the dynamics of global arc-shaped subduction orogenic belts but also underscores the importance of integrating geological observations with numerical simulations to unveil the complexities of arc-shaped subduction dynamic systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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Database:	Engineering Source

Description
Abstract:	This study provides a comprehensive analysis of the transformational role and dynamic mechanisms in arc-shaped subduction orogenic belts, with a specific focus on their manifestations in regions such as the Mediterranean and the Caribbean. Current research highlights the control exerted by the negative buoyancy of subducting oceanic plates on subduction rates and their role in driving slab rollback. The feedback effects between trench retreat and tectonic transformation are identified as key mechanisms contributing to the curvature of orogenic belts. Simulation results indicate that the timing and distance of back-arc spreading center jumps in curved subduction zones are governed by the ratio of strength between transform faults and the overriding plate. Gravity-driven forces from subducting slabs are the primary drivers of arc curvature, tectonic transformations along subduction zones, the formation of transform faults, slab tearing, and even the rollback-driven invasion of curved subduction zones into Atlantic-type oceans. Geological evidence reveals that the development of transtensional or transpressional deformation in arc-shaped subduction orogenic belts results from the complex interactions between slab-rollbacked subduction and tectonic transformation within the overriding plate. This research not only enhances our understanding of the dynamics of global arc-shaped subduction orogenic belts but also underscores the importance of integrating geological observations with numerical simulations to unveil the complexities of arc-shaped subduction dynamic systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
ISSN:	16747313
DOI:	10.1007/s11430-024-1531-5