Collaborative Research: Geochemical Consequences of Melt Channeling: Exploring a New Class of Models for Geochemical Variability

Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, Woods Hole MA

Investigators

Abstract

In this proposed study the PIs will investigate the interaction between channelized and porous flow of melt in the mantle and chemical heterogeneities that might be present at various length scales. Using theoretical models constrained by geologic and petrologic observations, they will examine the basic behavior of systems undergoing melting and their predictions. The research will primarily be undertaken by a graduate student, with close supervision by the PIs in a staged manner, progressing from simple to more complex (realistic) models. It is expected that the new models can be used to test emerging ideas and observations of chemical heterogeneity in melts and mantle residues in a variety of melting regimes (ridges, arc, plumes).