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What are the key geodynamic mechanisms in tectonic rifting? 


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The key geodynamic mechanisms in tectonic rifting involve a combination of lithospheric weakening, mantle tractions, and subduction-related forces that overcome the lithospheric strength and initiate rifting . Rifting is facilitated by softening mechanisms such as frictional weakening, diking, and surface processes, as well as inherited rheological weaknesses . These processes lead to the development of rift structures and the thinning of the lithosphere . Magma generation during mantle plume impingement can further weaken the lithosphere and aid in the development of successful rifts . However, the force balance in rifts is also influenced by resisting factors such as isostatic forces and lithospheric cooling, which can lead to the cessation of tectonic activity and the failure of a rift . Understanding the interaction between these geodynamic forces and processes is crucial for unraveling the mechanisms that determine rift success or failure .

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The provided paper discusses the tectonic activation of the Anninghe rift and mentions that the key geodynamic mechanisms in tectonic rifting include horizontal squeeze from a plastic flow of the upper crust and expansion from mantle uplift.
Open accessBook ChapterDOI
Sascha Brune, Sascha Brune 
18 Oct 2016
38 Citations
The key geodynamic mechanisms in tectonic rifting include crust-mantle coupling, rift segmentation, rift obliquity, and the accumulation of sediments at rifted margins.
Open accessPosted ContentDOI
07 Mar 2022
The key geodynamic mechanisms in tectonic rifting include lithospheric buoyancy forces, mantle tractions, subduction-related forces, frictional weakening, diking, surface processes, and inherited rheological weaknesses.
The paper discusses the key geodynamic mechanisms in tectonic rifting, including the role of dykes in reducing the force needed for rifting and promoting the development of near-surface normal faults.
The paper discusses the key geodynamic mechanisms in tectonic rifting, including the exploitation of inherited weaknesses, lithospheric thinning, and the role of mantle plume impingement in weakening the lithosphere.

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