Abstract
ACCORDING to plate tectonic theory subduction zones form where two plates converge. Observation shows that these zones frequently form along the margins of continental plates where they override oceanic plates with Benioff zones dipping towards the continents. We consider the motion relative to the deeper mantle of two converging plates. Neglecting lateral shear components we find three cases possible. First, continental plate may be actively advancing and overriding an oceanic plate which is stationary relative to the mantle. Second, an oceanic plate may be actively advancing and passing beneath a stationary continental plate. Third, both plates may be in motion relative to the mantle, but if so their behaviour may be nearer to one or the other of the two previous cases.
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WILSON, J., BURKE, K. Two Types of Mountain Building. Nature 239, 448–449 (1972). https://doi.org/10.1038/239448a0
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/239448a0
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