Numerical Modeling of Impact Crater Shape with Mechanical Dynamic Softening

Abstract—Modeling the relative motion of large crustal blocks vitally depends on an adequate description of the forces acting between the blocks. To describe motion at high strain rates, it proved necessary to assume a dry friction to depend on the shear strain rate and, in some cases, on the amplitude of fault side displacement. The best known examples of large-scale motions with dynamically decreasing friction are long-runout rock avalanches and gravity-driven collapsing of the transitional cavities of large impact craters. In this work, the experience is discussed of using the model of acoustic fluidization as a factor of a temporary decrease in friction to quantitatively simulate impact crater shape on the Earth and other planetary bodies. Immediate promising ways to find more adequate models are outlined.