Slab breakoff as a mechanism for flipping of subduction polarity in Taiwan

摘要: We propose a model that involves breakoff of the east-dipping Eurasian slab beneath Taiwan orogen to account for flipping subduction polarity in northern Taiwan. The was initiated southern Ryukyu early Pliocene and then propagated southwestward into Taiwan, like an opening zipper. Detachment has created mantle window north-dipping Philippine Sea plate move laterally, causing switch polarity. Slab not only provides testable lithospheric structure but also accounts high heat flow, rapid uplift, synorogenic extension, deep-focus earthquakes, north-diminishing crustal contraction mountain belt.