How Tectonic Plates TAKE THE PLUNGE.

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Bibliographic Details
Title:	How Tectonic Plates TAKE THE PLUNGE.
Authors:	Schellart, Wouter P.
Source:	Issues. Mar2011, Issue 94, p30-33. 4p. 2 Color Photographs, 1 Diagram, 1 Map.
Subject Terms:	Subduction zones, Plate tectonics, Geological research, Earth's mantle, Speed, Mountains, Geological basins
Reviews & Products:	Nature (Periodical), Science (Periodical)
Abstract:	The article focuses on the importance of the size of subduction zone plate boundaries in controlling the velocities of tectonic plates. It relates the study published in the journal "Nature" and "Science" wherein the size of subduction zone plate boundaries has determined the rollback, the backward motion of a sinking slab, velocity of plate boundaries and their curvature as well as the velocities of tectonic plates. It says that wide subduction zone plate boundary has been capable of supporting large compressive stresses whereas narrow subduction zones cannot support such stresses. Moreover, the reduction of subduction zone can result to the destruction of mountain ranges and the formation of ocean basins.
Database:	Education Research Complete

Description
Abstract:	The article focuses on the importance of the size of subduction zone plate boundaries in controlling the velocities of tectonic plates. It relates the study published in the journal "Nature" and "Science" wherein the size of subduction zone plate boundaries has determined the rollback, the backward motion of a sinking slab, velocity of plate boundaries and their curvature as well as the velocities of tectonic plates. It says that wide subduction zone plate boundary has been capable of supporting large compressive stresses whereas narrow subduction zones cannot support such stresses. Moreover, the reduction of subduction zone can result to the destruction of mountain ranges and the formation of ocean basins.
ISSN:	08198101