How does crustal shortening contribute to the uplift of the eastern margin of the Tibetan Plateau

摘要: The eastern margin of the Tibetan Plateau, Longmen Shan, has triggered a vigorous debate to explain uplift and maintaining its steep high topography. Several mechanical kinematic models have been previously developed in order investigate tectonic erosional control on formation mechanism Shan. But contribution crustal shortening never taken into account due lack significant surface convergence rate (about 3 mm/a) across Shan range. We this question through 2D finite element modelling assuming visco-elasticity rheology. numerical results are constrained with geological geophysical observations find that even low contributes significantly This greatly underestimated previous studies. viscosity contrast between Plateau lower crust Yangtze crucially controls shortening. ductile thickens accommodate most shortening, as eastward movement is obstructed by strong stable craton. Sichuan causes gradient produce maintain topography time scale several million years. Our support possible explanation for paradox at