Dynamic topography

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Dynamic topography is large-scale surface elevation produced by the movement of material within Earth's mantle. Rising hot mantle can support broad regions of elevated terrain, while sinking cold mantle can draw the surface downward.

Unlike topography caused directly by crustal thickness or isostatic loading, dynamic topography reflects stresses transmitted from mantle convection to the lithosphere. It can change slowly as mantle flow evolves.

The effect influences continental flooding, drainage patterns, sediment deposition, erosion, sea-level reconstructions, and the uplift or subsidence of broad regions.

Scientists estimate dynamic topography using seismic tomography, mantle-flow models, gravity measurements, geological records, and comparisons between observed elevation and crustal structure. Its magnitude and history remain active areas of research.

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• Source / publisher: Wikipedia
• URL type: WWW
• Credits: Wikipedia
• URL: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dynamic_topography