Joint Seismic and Geodynamic Inversion for Whole Mantle Structure

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9317176 Phipps Morgan The PI will develop simple model descriptions of large-scale lateral viscosity variation near the top of the mantle, and develop simple and computationally efficient theories to treat mantle rheologies where the mantle viscosity is radially dependent except for significant lateral variation near the top. Since this is likely to be the largest lateral viscosity variation in the mantle, by exploring these effects, one can better understand the coupling between lateral viscosity variations, mantle flow and the geoid. These models will make it possible to assess the dynamical effects of the distribution of (strong) continental cratons and (weaker) sub-oceanic asthenosphere on mantle flow. In addition, these models will provide useful benchmarks to guide us in the development of a 3-D spherical, variable viscosity convection code. ****