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A Numerical Approach For Determining The Variable Ascent Velocity Of A Granitoid Diapir, Keith I. Mahon

Geology Theses and Dissertations

A mathematical model for granitoid diapirism has been developed that accounts for the time dependent thermal and rheological conditions encountered by the intruding body. This model is derived by the simultaneous solution of the partial differential equations of energy, continuity, and momentum utilizing scaling analysis. The underlying assumption is that deformation of the surrounding country rock is confined to a relatively thin layer with a temperature dependent Newtonian viscosity. When the country rock is modeled as a power-law fluid, the effective viscosity is dependent upon temperature and shear strain rate.
This model allows for realistic temperature gradients within the crust …