Core formation and core composition from coupled geochemical and geophysical constraints.

ABSTRACT: The formation of Earth's core left behind geophysical and geochemical signatures in both the core and mantle that remain to this day. Seismology requires that the core be lighter than pure iron and therefore must contain light elements, and the geochemistry of mantle-derived rocks reveals extensive siderophile element depletion and fractionation. Both features are inherited from metal-silicate differentiation in primitive Earth and depend upon the nature of physiochemical conditions that prevailed during core formation. To date, core formation models have only attempted to address the evolution of core and mantle compositional signatures separately, rather than seeking a joint solution. Here we combine experimental petrology, geochemistry, mineral physics and seismology to constrain a rang

SUBMITTER: Badro J 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4603515 | biostudies-literature | 2015 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature