Fig. 2

Hypothetical uplift mechanisms for TAM rift shoulder. These are a buoyant uplift via low-density crustal root; b uplift via lateral heating, thermal expansion, and possible melting; c uplift via other mechanisms such as lithospheric cantilevered flexure with or without regional density contrasts. Physiographic regions include West Antarctica (WA), East Antarctica (EA), Ross Ice Shelf (RIS), Transantarctic Mountains (TAM), and Polar Plateau (PPl). Diagram not to scale