Results obtained in this paper show that there is a change in the geometry of the tectonic subsidence curves, which depart considerably from the expected behavior for a basin dominated by thermal subsidence. The post-rift stage, comprised between Early Jurassic and Early Cretaceous, was classically assumed as dominated by thermal subsidence. The origin of the basin was linked to a lithospheric mechanical extension episode in the Late Triassic - Early Jurassic that, once completed, gave rise to a post-rift stage. The methodology consisted of the integration of outcrop and subsurface data, in order to obtain tectonic subsidence curves for the analyzed period in the study area. Ongoing and future studies will help resolve these apparent contradictions.This paper presents a detailed study of the tectonic subsidence evolution during the Late Triassic - Late Jurassic period in the central area of the Neuquén Basin. We suggest that regional elevation is mainly ruled by lithospheric and crustal structure, along with bulk composition, as supported by dynamic forces that can change laterally and generate local morphological features such as isolated basins or promontories. But strong disagreements arise along the flat-slab segment, where dynamic uplift is expected from models of dynamic topography. In turn, estimates for the southern Central Andes show a relatively good match between subsidence models and residual topography in pericratonic areas (Pampas), which support dynamic subsidence and topography. Most geological interpretations and our subsidence models suggest the need for dynamic subsidence, which does not account for negative residual topography. The pericratonic and cratonic areas of Peru and Brazil, farther east from the leading edge of the Nazca ridge, show positive residual topographies (dynamic uplift) and local subsidence studies support residual subsidence driven by sublithospheric forces. Our results show contradictory results among models and with respect to previous studies. Three transects across the northern-central, southern-central, and southern Andes (Peruvian Andes-Solimoes-Amazonas, Precordillera-Pampas, and Patagonian areas, respectively) were inspected, particularly in areas affected by subduction of oceanic ridges, where subsidence and/or uplift may be influenced by dynamic forces. We incorporate geological observations to test the dynamic topography for modern and ancient examples using local subsidence analyses, paleoelevation calculations from previous studies, and paleolithospheric thickness estimates based on geochemical studies of basalts.

Residual topography, the difference between modeled isostatic elevations and measured elevations, is considered the best measure of dynamic topography. Here we review different topographic features of South America using the residual topography concept at regional and local scales. The understanding of modern topography, and basin and landscape evolution, requires clear comprehension of isostatic and dynamic forces (in addition to paleoclimate changes) over different temporal and spatial scales.

Flex2d geodynamics