Insights on the kinematics of the India‐Eurasia collision from global geodynamic models

摘要: The Eocene India-Eurasia collision is a first order tectonic event whose nature and chronology remains controversial. We test two end-member scenarios using coupled global plate motion-subduction models. first, conventional model, invokes continental soon after ∼60 Ma between maximum extent Greater India an Andean-style Eurasian margin. alternative scenario involves minimum NeoTethyan back-arc at that subsequently subducted along southern Lhasa margin, culminating with continent-continent contact ∼40 Ma. Our numerical models suggest the does not adequately reproduce mantle structure related to Tethyan convergence. better reproduces discrete slab volumes their lateral vertical distribution in mantle, also supported by of ophiolites indicative intraoceanic subduction, magmatic gaps two-stage slowdown India. show strong component southward return flow for region, suggesting common assumption near-vertical sinking oversimplification significant consequences interpretations seismic tomography context subduction reference frames.