Phanerozoic evolution of mantle convection, long-wavelength dynamic topography and long-term sea level in a global tectonic framework

The changing pattern of convective circulation in the Earth’s mantle induces slowly developing, vertical displacements of the crustal surface resulting in dynamic topography; which influences erosion, sedimentation, eustatic sea-level change and continental flooding. Given the importance of dynamic topography, attempts have been made to constrain its spatiotemporal pattern, wavelength and amplitude. Thus, tracking the influence of mantle flow over geologic time is one of the important scientific endeavours. To achieve this aim, geodynamic experiments of mantle convection can be coupled with plate tectonic reconstructions to predict upwellings and downwellings that in turn elevate or depress the Earth’s surface. The overarching aim of this thesis is to understand and quantify the effect of mantle dynamics on the Earth’s surface throughout the Phanerozoic by combining global plate tectonic reconstructions, dynamic Earth models and geological observations.