| Abstract: | A new numerical model that simulates a downgoing slab is used to study the conditions required to produce melting on its upper surface. Models with dip angles of 26.6° and 45°, rates of subduction of 0.7 and 5.6 cm y−1, varying heat sources and rising material from the top of the slab are included. The results indicate that melting will not be greatly affected by dip angle, though the rate of subduction and the amount of shearstrain heating are important. When melting occurs, material rising from the top of the slab may produce high heat flow values at the surface of the earth on the continental side of the ocean trench, if the process continues sufficiently long. The sinking slab produces a positive gravity anomaly on the continental side of subduction, which is reduced in amplitude when rising material is present. |
