Strong Premelting Effect in the Elastic Properties of hcp-Fe Under Inner-Core Conditions

Abstract

On the Brink of Melting The considerable pressures and temperatures of Earth's iron-rich inner core make it a challenge to compare measurements made in experimental systems with observed seismic data. Computational simulations of core materials may reconcile any apparent differences. Martorell et al. (p. 466 , published online 10 October) used ab initio simulations to predict the elastic properties of iron at core pressures. As temperatures approached the melting point of pure iron, the material was predicted to weaken to the point that seismic waves would be slowed considerably. An inner core with a small percentage of light elements like oxygen and silicon near its melting temperature would correspond well with measured seismic velocities.