Role of random thermal perturbations in the magmatic segmentation of mid-oceanic ridges: Insights from numerical simulations

摘要: Abstract Using a random thermal perturbation (RTP) model this study investigates the process of magmatic segmentation along mid-oceanic ridge (MOR) axes as function upwelling dynamics, controlled by coupled solidification–melting processes. The RTP suggests that variation in along-axis velocity ( V L ) fields constitutes underlying mechanism natural MORs, showing temperature variations within steady-state range, irrespective large initial perturbations imposed at base. patterns are initially transient, characterized multi-order segments, but attain stable configuration with dominantly segments (average size ~ 100 km) time scale 2.3 Ma. Buoyant-melt driven convection explains transient segmentation. Small cells found to be progressively consumed larger cells, resulting structure over similar scale. Slow- and fast-spreading ridges (SSR FSR) undergo contrasting melt flow patterns. SSRs involve feeding into axis horizontal flows from segment centers, trailing large-scale conduits an early stage. With time, vertical occurs throughout segment. In case FSRs, both supply avenues prevail their development. We also evaluate across-axis T investigate mode geometric evolution MORs. Time series maps suggest develops through localization discrete  = 0) offsets varying up 15 km, which coalesce one another form single axis. matured ridge, however, retains higher-order (up 9 km).