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A mechanism for crustal recycling on VenusEntrainment of lower crust by convective mantle downflows is proposed as a crustal recycling mechanism on Venus. The mechanism is characterized by thin sheets of crust being pulled into the mantle by viscous flow stresses. Finite element models of crust/mantle interaction are used to explore tectonic conditions under which crustal entrainment may occur. The recycling scenarios suggested by the numerical models are analogous to previously studied problems for which analytic and experimental relationships assessing entrainment rates have been derived. We use these relationships to estimate crustal recycling rates on Venus. Estimated rates are largely determined by (1) strain rate at the crust/mantle interface (higher strain rate leads to greater entrainment); and (2) effective viscosity of the lower crust (viscosity closer to that of mantle lithosphere leads to greater entrainment). Reasonable geologic strain rates and available crustal flow laws suggest entrainment can recycle approximately equal 1 cu km of crust per year under favorable conditions.
Document ID
19950045576
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Reprint (Version printed in journal)
Authors
Lenardic, A.
(University of California, Los Angeles, CA United States)
Kaula, W. M.
(University of California, Los Angeles, CA United States)
Bindschadler, D. L.
(University of California, Los Angeles, CA United States)
Date Acquired
August 16, 2013
Publication Date
October 25, 1993
Publication Information
Publication: Journal of Geophysical Research
Volume: 98
Issue: E10
ISSN: 0148-0227
Subject Category
Lunar And Planetary Exploration
Accession Number
95A77175
Funding Number(s)
CONTRACT_GRANT: NAGW-2085
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Other

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