Global tectonic cycle: a conceptual step from plate kinematics towards their dynamics
Global Tectonic cycle (GTC). Description. The GTC model is based on the following assumptions: 1) at some moment of time Tx the lithosphere (as the assemblage of plates) is in the state of dynamic equilibrium; i.e. no relative motions of plates as to one another and/or to the mantle. It means that die lithosphere is in the state of corotation with the mantle; 2) the mantle at some moment Tx is a homogenous non-stratificated layer. If at some moments Ts the density differentiation of the mantle for light (astenosphere) and heavy phases begins the succession of events will be as next.