Computational modeling reveals coupled geodynamic and petrological processes in Earth's mantle, highlighting the role of mineral equilibrium in driving mantle flow and melting phenomena.
Key Points
Develop a fully coupled computational framework combining fluid dynamics and chemical thermodynamics to simulate the petrological and geodynamic evolution of Earth's mantle.
Coupled dynamic transport equations for pressure, temperature, velocity, and bulk composition with thermodynamic solutions for mineral assemblages on a space-time grid under local thermodynamic equilibrium.
Simulated three geodynamic scenarios: passive plate spreading, mantle plume upwelling beneath a moving plate, and mantle convection incorporating mineralogy-dependent density and viscosity.
Simulated melt compositions during passive spreading matched major element profiles of global flood basalts with slightly elevated silica, while lower predicted melt volumes indicated the necessity of active mantle upwelling.
Plume models demonstrated that mineralogy-dependent density and viscous dissipation enhance mantle instability beneath the lithosphere.