Modeling Hydrothermal Processes on the Endeavour Segment and the East Pacific Rise: Brine Layers and Recharge

University Of Washington, Seattle WA

Investigators

Abstract

This is a numerical modeling study that will address two issues. It has been proposed that phase separation leads to the formation of a two layer double diffusive system. This work will develop a numerical model to determine the allowable structure, if any, of brine layers that have reached an equilibrium configuration. Geochemical data from the Endeavour segment reveals a strong organic signal that suggests that a significant component of recharge occurs in heavily sedimented regions located either off-ridge to the east, or on-ridge to the north. This work will try to understand what permeability structures and basal configurations are compatible with the high-aspect ratio circulation cells required by these explanations.