Slab rollback

Question 1

Where does slab rollback occur?

Answer 1

Slab rollback occurs at subduction zones, where one tectonic plate is forced beneath another

Question 2

What does it refer to?

Answer 2

It refers to the backwards movement or retreat of the subducting slab into the mantel

Question 3

What is it driven by?

Answer 3

Slab rollback is driven by forces associated with subduction. Subducting plate sinks into the mantle and creates a downward force on the overriding plate

Question 4

What does the force cause?

Answer 4

Force causes overriding plate to deform and bend forming a trench at the surface

Question 5

What is an important consequence?

Answer 5

One important consequence is the extension or stretching of the overriding plate behind the trench, which can result in the formation of back-arc basins or rift zones

Question 6

What else can it lead to?

Answer 6

Slab rollback can also lead to the initiation of new subduction zones. As the subducting slab retreats, it may pull the adjacent lithosphere down with it, creating a gap or weakness in the overriding plate which can facilitate the start of a new subduction zone, initiating a process known as slab capture or back-arc opening