1. Ancient Craton‐Wide Mid‐Lithosphere Discontinuity Controlled by Pargasite Channels.
- Author
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Sudholz, Z. J., Zhang, P., Eakin, C. M., Yaxley, G. M., Jaques, A. L., Frigo, C., and Czarnota, K.
- Subjects
SEISMIC wave velocity ,IMAGING systems in seismology ,LHERZOLITE ,LITHOSPHERE ,CRATONS ,AMPHIBOLES - Abstract
The mechanisms governing a commonly observed seismic velocity drop in the cratonic lithosphere, referred to as the mid‐lithospheric discontinuity (MLD), have been widely debated. To identify the composition and seismic structure of MLDs, we have analyzed Sp receiver functions (SRF) and mantle xenocrysts for six regions across Australia. We utilize locations where seismic stations and kimberlite‐hosted mantle xenocrysts are both available, allowing for comparison between seismological and petrological constraints. Our results show negative SRF phases indicative of the MLD coincide with clinopyroxene‐depleted zones at 60–140 km depth. Clinopyroxenes with different chemical compositions across the MLD define a litho‐chemical discontinuity. Modeling and experimental data show that MLDs may be explained by modified lherzolite with 10%–20% modal pargasite. Pargasite MLDs may form when rising H2O‐bearing melts cross the amphibole dehydration curve and react with clinopyroxene in lherzolite. Because the amphibole dehydration curve is isobaric at 80–120 km, pargasite will be precipitated as horizontal channels. Plain Language Summary: Seismic imaging of Earth's lithosphere has revealed a seismic velocity drop at 60–120 km depth, termed the mid‐lithosphere discontinuity (MLD). The mechanisms governing the MLD have been extensively debated. To advance the understanding of the MLD we carried out an interdisciplinary study to investigate the seismic structure and composition of MLDs identified in the cratonic lithosphere of Australia. We integrated analysis of seismic converted signals from discontinuities recorded by permanent seismometers with geochemical data for kimberlite‐hosted mantle xenocrysts collected in the vicinity. The method allows direct comparison between seismological and petrological constraints. Our results suggest that the MLD comprises anomalously low abundances of clinopyroxene and separates geochemically distinct layers within the lithospheric mantle. Experimental results and modeling suggests that the observed decrease in seismic velocity and absence of clinopyroxene may relate to the formation of pargasite channels in modified lherzolite. Key Points: Sp receiver functions and mantle xenocrysts are used to study mid‐lithosphere discontinuities beneath Australian cratonsMid‐lithosphere discontinuity at 60–120 km depth corresponds with mantle xenocryst populations that are depleted in clinopyroxeneModeling and experimental data suggests the mid‐lithosphere discontinuity is caused by pargasite‐bearing lherzolite [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2024
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