Modelling lithospheric deformation
Numerical Modelling - This approach is very popular amongst fluid-dynamicists. It consists in building a numerical model whose physical behavior is described by equations solved at the nodes of a grid that discretizes the solution domain. Until recently, two approaches were pursued depending of the rheological complexity of the model:
• Lagrangian approach involves a computational grid that deforms with the model. This approach was the most efficient for rheologically layered systems but the deforming grid meant that large deformation was impossible to achieve.
 • Eulerian approach involves a fixed computational grid. This is particularly efficient for large deformation such as mantle convection. But Eulerian approach can not handle mechanical discontinuities.
@ Chris Beaumont - Halifax -