DYNAMIC TOPOGRAPHY, STREAM CAPTURE, AND THE SEDIMENTARY RECORD

Earth’s topography consists of both dynamically and isostatically supported topography modulated by surface processes, and changes can be recorded in sedimentary successions. However, it is difficult to deconvolve this record into contributions from changes in climate, tectonics, and dynamic topography. Herein, we use a landscape evolution model capable of producing simulations at the necessary scale and resolution to quantify landscape response to moderate changes in dynamic topography in the presence of flexural isostatic unloading and loading due to erosion and deposition. We demonstrate that even moderate changes in dynamic topography results in increased sediment flux to continental margins that may be identifiable in the sedimentary record. This response persists long after dynamic topography changes have passed, and is dependent on the interplay of uplift rate, rock erodibility, and starting topography.