Plate subducted into the Earthfs mantle (=slab) tends to once stagnate in the transition region (=stagnant slab) and
then fall into the deep lower mantle. We aim at answering why slab tends to
stagnate, how it falls and what are geological consequences of slab falling.
|
|
|
We combine ocean bottom seismic and electromagnetic observations with tomographic
analyses to reveal the details of the structure of stagnant slab and the
surrounding mantle (Projects A01, A02). Also, high temperature/pressure
experiments, some of which utilize the largest synchrotron radiation facility,
are performed to understand the mechanisms of slab stagnation and subsequent
falling (Project A03). Impacts of slab falling on Earthfs history is investigated
by mantle convection modeling using Earth Simulator employing the newly
obtained detailed structure of the mantle and high temperature/pressure
properties of mantle materials (Project A04).
|
|
|
Stagnant slab is a missing link between the Earthfs deep and shallow,
and between the past and present. Its comprehensive understanding is expected
to open a new window to mantle dynamics.
|
|
|
