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On this sketch is represented the boundary conditions applied to two contrasted continental lithospheres. One represents a modern lithosphere (TMoho~540ºC, density of SCLM 3.37g/cc) the other represents an Archaean lithosphere (TMoho 720ºC, density of SCLM 3.31 g/cc).
These two lithospheres have the same composition and same crustal and SCLM thicknesses. They are squeezed on the side by a constant driving forces, they are allowed to flow in an horizontal direction perpendicular to that of convergence. Other boundary conditions include erosion and the surface, constant heat flow entering the base of the lithosphere, and a constant temperature at the surface.
The objective of the numerical experiment is to compare the mechanical response of a warm and buoyant Archaean continental lithosphere with that of a less buoyant and colder modern continental lithosphere.
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