CSEDI Collaborative Research: Mineral Physics Based Geodynamical Modeling of Anisotropic Structure in the Lower Most Mantle

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9905601Van keken The PIs propose a collaborative project to develop a better understanding of the nature of strong and highly variable seismic anisotropy in the D'' layer at the base of Earth's mantle. Observations of anisotropy potentially provide useful constraints on dynamic processes, but fundamental mineral physics issues, such as whether LPO or SPO controls the anisotropy have not been resolved. This project plans to identify the likely physical mechanisms of seismic anisotropy by combining mineral-physics-based geodynamical modeling with seismological observations. This will allow identification of the horizontal and vertical flow geometry in the D" layer, the degree of chemical heterogeneity, and possibly constraints on the distribution and shape of partially molten materials.