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Mantle viscosity stratification and flow geometry - Implications for surface motions on earth and VenusFor a fixed heat flow, the surface flow velocity of a convecting layer is not strongly sensitive to the variation of viscosity as a function of depth. Thus, the inferred absence of a low viscosity asthenosphere on Venus can not account for the limited surface motions there. The surface velocity is dependent on the convective geometry. Cartesian geometry convection can produce large surface velocities if the high viscosity surface layer is broken in places by weak zones. On the other hand, a high viscosity surface layer may inhibit the development of large surface velocities in axisymmetric convection.
Document ID
19930048266
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Reprint (Version printed in journal)
Authors
Kiefer, Walter S.
(NASA Goddard Space Flight Center Greenbelt, MD, United States)
Date Acquired
August 16, 2013
Publication Date
February 19, 1993
Publication Information
Publication: Geophysical Research Letters
Volume: 20
Issue: 4
ISSN: 0094-8276
Subject Category
Lunar And Planetary Exploration
Accession Number
93A32263
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Other

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