A method of estimating the melting‐point gradient in the Earth's mantle

Abstract

Using the Einstein‐Debye theory of solids and Lindemann's theory of fusion, the ratio of the melting point at various depths in the mantle to that at depth 100 km is computed from seismic data. It is found mat the melting‐point gradient decreases with depth. Using data for solid olivine, a value of 5300°K is found for the melting point at the core boundary, which gives an upper limit for the actual temperature there.