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Influence of the asthenosphere on earth dynamics and evolution
Lawrence Cathles1, Willy Fjeldskar2, Adrian Lenardic3
1Department of Earth and Atmospheric Sciences, Cornell University, Ithaca, USA.
Scientific Reports
|August 17, 2023
Summary
A weak asthenosphere layer beneath Earth's lithosphere supports plate tectonics. This layer, crucial for mantle convection, is linked to partial melting and water, regulating Earth's long-term evolution.
Area of Science:
- Geophysics
- Geology
- Earth Sciences
Background:
- The asthenosphere is a debated layer beneath Earth's lithosphere.
- Its properties are inferred from various geophysical and geological observations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To synthesize evidence supporting the existence and properties of the asthenosphere.
- To explore the asthenosphere's role in plate tectonics and Earth's evolution.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of Pleistocene glacio-isostatic adjustment data.
- Modeling of gravity anomalies.
- Interpretation of seismic anisotropy and post-seismic rebound studies.
- Review of mantle convection models.
Main Results:
- Geological and geophysical data consistently support a thin, weak asthenospheric layer.
- This layer is essential for Earth's plate tectonic style of mantle convection.
- The asthenosphere is likely characterized by partial melting and the presence of water.
Conclusions:
- The asthenosphere plays a critical role in plate tectonics.
- Thermal regulation and volatile recycling in the asthenosphere control Earth's long-term evolution.
- A geotherm approaching the wet mantle solidus at asthenospheric depths is maintained.
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