Geodynamic evolution of the Earth over 600 Ma: palaeo-topography & -bathymetry (from 2D to 3D)

A full global, physically coherent geodynamical model over 600 million years (Ma) has been developed at the University of Lausanne* during the past 20 years, based on the PaleoDyn database, compiling geological, palaeogeographical, and geophysical information of geodynamical interest. The 2D model (series of 48 maps) allows us, now, to investigate world bathymetry (or sea-floor topography) and continental topography. A theoretical approach of the relief is shown here, based on lithospheric plate cooling model and best-fit of present-day topographic (s.l.) data. Although such general and actualistic method may be valid to first order only, it has the advantage of being applicable anywhere in the world and for the whole Phanerozoic. Our wish is to combine our model with global oceanic and/or atmospheric circulation models (GCM). The model is a powerful tool to test whether tectonics is the predominant parameter on long-term global climate changes or not. Such 3D development, therefore, may have endless repercussions not only for Earth Sciences but also for the present-day debate upon climate changes. * This work was carried out as part of work done within the research program of the University of Lausanne on the Stampfli geodynamic model, model which is now owned by Neftex Petroleum Consultants Ltd. and is now attached to the "Neftex Earth Model".