Question #1:

Describe the mean features of models that used to explain rift-flank uplift.

Answer:

1. Thermal Models: Uplift can result from depth dependent stretching or from heating of flanks by small scale convection.
2. Mechanical Models: Indicate that upward flexure may occur if the lithosphere maintains finite strength during rifting.
3. Geometric Models: Explain the symmetry of uplift in terms of a single low angle detachment penetrating the entire lithosphere.
4. Melt Process Models: Extensive flank uplift may also result from magmatic underplating due to asthenospheric partial melting.

Question #2:

Illustrate the main steps used by the author in formulation of his model.

Answer:

1. Prescribing density field within the model domain by using results from seismic tomography.
2. The governing equations are solved for instantaneous flow fields throughout the domain.
3. Dynamic topography is computed by applying surface normal stresses output from the convection code to a model of elastic beam deformation.

Question #3:

What the author claimed about the tilting of the Arabian platform?

Answer:

Author stated that the topography dynamically supported by large scale viscous flow in the mantle is responsible for the dramatic tilting of the Arabian platform. The tilting also is enhanced by seismically mantle beneath northeast Arabia, which acts to dynamically depress the overlying plate in this area.