Towards a new paradigm in dynamic lithospheric strength

In this talk, I will present recent and ongoing work from my research group that explores the evolving strength, or rheology, of the lithosphere in four dimensions. Using recently published work focused on subduction zones as a template, I will show how our group’s fundamental starting point is detailed geologic observations from the exhumed rock record. These data allow us to pinpoint how deformation mechanisms and chemical transformations (e.g., metasomatism, metamorphism) modulate rheological evolution. We frame our dynamic understanding of these observations by incorporating quantitative experimental constraints from the laboratory, which we also provide. We also develop novel geochronological tools to directly date deformation and constrain rheologic evolution in time. Finally, petrologic and geodynamic modeling allows us to upscale and bridge geologic data with experimental constraints to understand the dynamic rheologies of ubiquitous Earth processes including subduction, continental collision, and the longterm stability of the continents.

About this Series: Informal research talks with early career faculty and researchers.

Contact David Wright: djwright@mit.edu for more information and Zoom password information.