The role of plume-ridge decoupling on rapid plate motion and intraplate volcanism

Apr 23, 2023·
Dr. Ben Mather
Dr. Ben Mather
· 0 min read
Abstract
Mantle plumes and mid-ocean ridges interact in ways that influence both plate motion and volcanism, yet these dynamics are poorly captured in existing plate tectonic models. We examine how the coupling and subsequent decoupling of plumes from ridges drives rapid changes in plate velocity and generates intraplate volcanism, with implications for understanding large igneous province formation and asymmetric seafloor spreading.
Date
Apr 23, 2023 9:00 AM — 10:00 AM
Location

Vienna, Austria

events
Plume-Ridge Interaction Plate Tectonics Geodynamics
Dr. Ben Mather
Authors
Dr. Ben Mather
ARC Industry Research Fellow

I am an ARC Industry Research Fellow in the School of Geography, Earth and Atmospheric Sciences at The University of Melbourne. I am an expert in fusing Earth evolution models with data to understand how groundwater moves critical minerals through the landscape. Related research interests include the cycling of volatiles within the Earth, probabilistic thermal models of the lithosphere to unravel past tectonic and climatic events, and understanding the how enigmatic volcanoes form.

I am a vocal advocate for the integral role of geoscience in responding to challenges we face in transitioning to the carbon-neutral economy. As an expert in my field, I have been interviewed in national and international print media, TV, and radio on a wide variety of subjects including earthquakes, volcanoes, groundwater, and critical minerals.