Mass balance and phase density constraints on early differentiation of chondritic mantle

Abstract

A surprisingly simple and precise major element mass balance is consistent with derivation of average upper mantle peridotite from a partially molten chondritic Earth by subtraction of perovskite and addition of olivine. Majorite involvement is precluded unless some as yet unidentified components play a role. Perovskite subtraction during a primordial melting event is expected to occur by crystal fractionation at depth, while olivine addition is accomplished by a combination of buoyancy mechanisms: crystal flotation from a deep layer of melt buried by its own compressibility to the base of the solidifying upper mantle and subsequent solid state convection of this buoyant magnesian olivine upward. These processes are consistent with known density relations of crystals and liquid at very high pressure. Mass balance predicts that the residual magma body at depth after supplying olivine by flotation upward can be komatiitic. Distribution of originally C1 chrondritic bulk Earth material a few 100 m.y. after primordial differentiation is solid peridotite upper mantle, perovskite lower mantle, and a komatiitic liquid sandwich horizon.