Abstract: As the core region of plate tectonic theory, subduction zones exert profound influences on the tectonic movements
of the continental lithosphere and surface processes through their dynamic behaviors. This study systematically analyzes the methodology of sandbox physical simulation experiments for subduction and summarizes the dynamics of subduction processes and their driving mechanisms on the tectono-geomorphic evolution of the continental lithosphere. The results reveal a coupled interaction among the geometric-kinematic induces large-scale extension, slab rollover generates surface uplift, and slab stacking leads to periodic topographic evolution. The viscosity ratio between subducting slabs and asthenospheric mantle (ηSP/ηUM) is identified as the primary factor controlling subduction styles (rollback, rollover, and stacking). Subduction-driven slab motions trigger polar and toroidal mantle flows, whose drag forces influence surface deformation, while active mantle flows regulate strain distribution through their direction and velocity. Subduction is inherently a thermo-mechanical coupling process, with the rheological structure and coupling degree of the lithosphere directly reflecting thermoo-mechanical feedback, thereby shaping diverse geomorphic features in subduction zones. Additionally, this paper highlights the limitations of sandbox physical simulations and proposes future research directions integrating hypergravity centrifugation technology, multi-field coupled monitoring, and interdisciplinary approaches to quantitatively investigate the three-dimensional dynamic evolution of subduction zones and their surface geomorphic responses. These advancements will provide experimental support for refining plate tectonic theory.

Key words: subduction zone, analogue modeling, continental lithosphere, tectonic movement, dynamic processes