Investigation of the isostatic anomaly of the Eastern Alps

The regional characteristic of the isostatic anomaly in the Eastern Alps cannot be explained by simple models with partially over- and undercompensated crust. This also holds for the geodynamical interpretation of observed recent crustal movements. The correlation with the isostatic anomaly is not convincing even when investigating the low frequency content of the field. Gravity effects of upper mantle structures as reported in the Western and Central Alps may remarkably change the regional trends also in this area. Nevertheless rough estimates of the isostatic state are possible by statistical analysis of the relation between gravity anomalies and mean elevations. The present investigation shows the Eastern Alpine area being close to isostatic equilibrium. The coincidence of high uplift rates with local negative isostatic anomalies indicates isostatic rebound effects to be possible.