The Radial and Linear Modes of Interaction between Mantle Plume and Continental Lithosphere: A Case Study from Western India

The study examines the interaction between continental lithosphere (CL) and deep mantle plume. For this purpose, the Indian CL and the Reunion plume have been considered, with special emphasis on the consequent development of geophysical, tectonic and structural features. It reveals a bimodal pattern (linear and radial) of these manifestations. The radial one is correlated with the outburst of the plume-head, while the pre- and post-outburst phases follow a linear mode due to the traverse of Indian plate over the plume. It is seen that, the plume-CL interaction is facilitated by mobile belts and resisted by cratons.