Three-Dimensional Model of Convection in a Really Heterogeneous Mantle as a Basis for Quantitative Generalization of Plate Tectonics at the Present Earth Development Stage

Instantaneous velocity of three-dimensional flows in the Earth’s mantle is calculated using the Stokes equation and non-Newtonian rheology, based on the SMEAN 2 global seismic tomography model. This model automatically takes into account the fundamental forces acting in the mantle and on the Earth’s surface. The constructed 3D model of mantle flows describes in detail horizontal movements of the Earth’s surface observed using the satellite geodesy and provides a quantitative basis for interpreting the features of regional geological processes. The constructed spherical 3D model of modern global geodynamics is a quantitative generalization of the plate tectonics theory for the current Earth’s development stage.