Kontinentalhängen

Kontinentalhängen is a term used in geology to describe a phenomenon where the continental crust, specifically its outer layers, is thought to be "hanging" or supported by a denser, more buoyant layer beneath it. This concept is often discussed in the context of isostasy, the principle that the Earth's crust floats on the mantle at an elevation dependent on its thickness and density.

The idea suggests that under certain geological conditions, the rigid continental lithosphere might not be entirely self-supporting. Instead, a lower, less dense, and potentially more ductile portion of the mantle or a specialized crustal layer could provide significant upward buoyancy. This could explain why some continental regions, even those with relatively thin crust, are found at high elevations, such as mountain ranges.

Kontinentalhängen is not a universally accepted or precisely defined term, and its precise mechanisms are still a subject of ongoing research and debate among geoscientists. Various models exist to explain the support of continental crust, including the thickening of the crust itself, flexural rigidity, and the rheological properties of the underlying mantle. The concept of "kontinentalhängen" can be seen as one perspective within these broader discussions, emphasizing a buoyant support mechanism from below.

Understanding the forces that support continental landmasses is crucial for comprehending plate tectonics, mountain building processes, and the long-term evolution of Earth's surface. While the specific term "kontinentalhängen" might be less common in mainstream literature, the underlying idea of buoyant support from deeper layers remains an important consideration in geological modeling.