Abstract
The bulk modulus of a natural sample of cubic majorite, one of the primary components of the Earth's transition zone, has been determined by two independent methods: quasi-hydrostatic compression in the diamond anvil cell and Brillouin spectroscopy at room pressure. The two measurements agree well, and together yield a zero-pressure isothermal bulk modulus K0T=162.7 (± 3.3) GPa, and a pressure derivative K0T′=6.6 (± 0.8). Additional compression experiments under nonhydrostatic conditions show that majorite supports shear stresses of at least 2 to 3 GPa at pressures of 7-11 GPa, among the highest values yet documented in silicates or oxides at comparable pressures. These results imply a high strength for majorite, suggesting that the transition zone could be strong to a degree that may influence deformation and heat transfer within the Earth.
Original language | English (US) |
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Article number | 1999JB900374 |
Pages (from-to) | 5963-5971 |
Number of pages | 9 |
Journal | Journal of Geophysical Research: Solid Earth |
Volume | 105 |
Issue number | B3 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - Mar 10 2000 |
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Geophysics
- Geochemistry and Petrology
- Earth and Planetary Sciences (miscellaneous)
- Space and Planetary Science