Modeling petrological geodynamics in the Earth's mantle

摘要: [1] We have developed an approach that combines principles of fluid dynamics and chemical thermodynamics into a fully coupled scheme to model geodynamic petrological evolution the Earth's mantle. Transport equations involving pressure, temperature, velocities, bulk composition are solved for one or more dynamic phases interfaced with thermodynamic solutions equilibrium mineralogical assemblages compositions. The assemblage computed on space-time grid, assuming local is effectively achieved. This allows us simultaneously compute geophysical, geochemical, properties can be compared large mass observational data gain insights variety solid Earth problems melting phenomena. We describe salient features our numerical underlying mathematical discuss few selected applications geophysical problems. First, it shown during initial stage passive spreading plates, melt near surface in reasonable agreement average major element worldwide flood basalts. Only silica content from slightly higher data. amount produced somewhat lower than estimated volumes extrusive upper crustal intrusive igneous rocks provinces suggesting active upwelling larger mantle region should considered process. Second, we modeled plume under moving plate incorporating effects mineralogy density structure viscous dissipation heat transport equation. results show how these promote instability at base lithosphere. Third, convection viscosity directly related assemblage. Interesting lateral variations significant differences revealed results. averaged depth retrieved simulations seem reproduce main Pacific ocean obtained recent studies based inversion seismic