Probing recycled carbonate in the lower mantle

Area of Science:

• Geochemistry
• Geology
• Earth Science

Background:

• The deep carbon cycle is crucial for regulating Earth's climate.
• Understanding the transport of surficial carbon to the deep Earth is poorly understood.
• Mantle plumes provide a window into the Earth's deep interior.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the potential for surficial carbonates to be subducted into the lower mantle.
• To explore the role of deep-rooted mantle plumes in the global carbon cycle.
• To present new isotopic evidence regarding carbon transport.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of magnesium and zinc isotopic systematics.
• Examination of rocks originating from deep-rooted mantle plumes.

Main Results:

• Isotopic data provides clues on the origin and fate of carbon in the mantle.
• Evidence suggests surficial materials can be transported to significant depths.

Conclusions:

• Surficial carbonates may be incorporated into the lower mantle.
• Magnesium and zinc isotopes are valuable tracers for deep carbon cycling.
• Further research is needed to fully constrain the deep carbon cycle.