| Abstract: | In this presentation, I will discuss our recent understanding of the mineralogy, geochemistry, and geophysics of the Earth’s mantle. I will address whether or not the mantle is chemically and/or seismically homogenous or heterogeneous, what is the consequences of hydration in the transition zone (does it contain water?), what are the geophysical and geochemical consequences of the spin transition and post-perovskite transition in the lower mantle. The Earth’s mantle is the most voluminous layer of the planet in which a number of structural transitions further separate it into distinct regions including the upper mantle, the transition zone, the lower mantle, and the D” zone. I will use laboratory mineral physics results, including phase diagrams, sound velocities, element partitioning, isotope fractionation factors, among others, to interpret geochemical observations and seismic signatures of the mantle. |
