The influence of plate strength on dynamic topography estimates

A common method used to evaluate dynamic topography amplitudes begins with an estimate of Moho depth, usually from seismic data but sometimes - or also - from the inversion of gravity data. Then the principles of Airy isostasy are applied: surface topography is assumed to be in isostatic equilibrium, buoyantly supported by the displacement of high-density mantle material by the low-density crustal ‘root’ that compensates the surface topographic mass. Hence, the actual relief of the Moho yields an ‘isostatic topography’ which will depart from the actual, observed topography by a component that, in theory, must arise from convective support or subsidence. Notwithstanding the fact that the errors on the seismic Moho may be larger than the topography itself, there is another source of uncertainty, that of the flexural rigidity of the lithosphere. Airy isostasy is essentially an end-member of plate flexure models, one in which the flexural rigidity is zero. However there are very few places on Earth where the flexural rigidity, usually represented by its geometric analogue the effective elastic thickness (Te), is indeed zero. In most environments, the rigidity of the plate will act to resist flexure, with the implication that the ‘Airy isostatic topography’ and therefore the dynamic topography will be in error. Here several scenarios will be presented illustrating these issues, and paths for remediation recommended.