Abstract
The regression formula between3He/4He ratio of underground fluids and terrestrial heat flow in continental areas is tested by data sets from the former Soviet Union and the mainland of China. The results show that there is no close relation between the two values. The heat-He relation might estimate the regional heat flow value with ±25% accuracy at best. We propose that the ratio of crust/mantle component of continental heat flow (qc/qm) be inversely related to the3He/4He ratio of underground fluids. Based on data sets of3He/4He ratio andqc/qm in the Eurasia and Canadian Shield, we obtain the regression relation betweenqc/qm and3He/4He:qc/qm=0.815−0.300*loge (3He/4He), in which the unit of3He/4He is Ra (atmospheric3He/4He ratio). The crust and mantle heat flow components can be taken from surface heat flow andqc/qm ratio. Based on this formula and heat flow data in major basins of China, the crustal, mantle heat flow values and the average crustal heat production rates were estimated. The estimated crustal chemical composition of China is in agreement with the result inferred by deep seismic sounding survey. Helium isotope ratio (3He/4He) of underground fluids may be a useful parameter for separating crust and mantle components of continental heat flow.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
