9458405 Bercovici Unifying the theories of plate tectonics and mantle dynamics is a major goal in geodynamics. This goal is impeded by the fact that plate tectonics treats plate margins as discontinuous, while mantle-flow models employ continuum mechanics. This research project proposes to develop a continuum model of plate tectonics that incorporates finite plate-margin widths and intraplate deformation. Significant undergraduate and graduate teaching will be incorporated in the career development plan.
