Dynamics of slab rollback and induced back-arc basin formation

We performed a numerical study to understand the dynamical mechanisms of back-arc basin formation induced by slab rollback. To this end, we used two-dimensional numerical models of an integrated plate–mantle convection system with 410- and 660-km phase transitions. Retrograde slab migration occurs when the slab stagnates in the transition zone or when the deep section of the slab is vertical. In both cases, slab rollback occurs because the deep slab section obstructs the descending motion of the shallow slab section with an inclination. Buoyancy of the 660-km phase boundary acts as the obstructing force in the case of stagnant slab formation, and an anchoring force against the horizontal motion works similarly in the case of vertical slabs. To balance the horizontal component of the obstructing force, a suction force at the plate boundary pulls the overriding plate toward the ocean. Back-arc spreading is produced by means of slab rollback when the overriding plate with a weak area is fixed to the model boundary. The back-arc deformation becomes compressional when the overriding plate is freely movable despite trench retreat, because the wedge mantle flow viscously drags the overriding plate toward the trench. This implies that forces tending to actuate the overriding plate away from the trench are necessary to generate back-arc extension even when trench retreat is generated by slab rollback.

► We performed numerical simulations of slab rollback with back-arc basin formation.
► Obstruction of the shallow slab motion by the deep section drives the rollback.
► Stagnant slab formation and vertical slab anchoring generate the obstructing force.
► Wedge mantle flow strongly drags a movable overriding plate toward the trench.
► Mobility of the overriding plate influences back-arc deformation.