Flexural response of the oceanic lithosphere at an arc—arc junction: implication for the subduction of aseismic ridges

The deformation of the oceanic lithosphere subducting at the junction of two trenches is studied by means of a three-dimensional finite-element analysis. Results show that the existence of a junction (i.e. a change in trend of the trench axis) yields a specific shape of the outer topographic rise. In a convex junction area—such as the Japan and Kuril trenches, the topographic bulge presents a “dome”, whereas in a concave junction area—such as the Java and Sumatra trenches, this bulge is less pronounced. These theoretical results are confirmed by the bathymetry seaward of the junctions of the Japan and Kuril trenches and of the Peru-Chile trench. Moreover, the existence of the abnormal topographic dome in front of a convex junction contributes to the creation of normal faults which help the subduction of seamounts or of other bathymetric features in such areas.