Theoretical Equations of State

Abstract

The primary objective of theoretical equation-of-state work in geophysics has been to provide a framework with which the ultrasonic, X-ray compression, and shock data can be used in interpreting the seismic velocity and density profiles in the earth. Each of these experimental techniques falls short of the ultimate experiment of reproducing the temperature-pressure conditions at any depth in the earth and measuring V_p, V_s, and p of mantle-candidate mineral assemblages for direct comparison with the seismic profiles. The ultrasonic data give V_p, V_s, and p as a function of T and P, but the pressure range has been limited to ∼10 kb. This limit necessitates a large extrapolation for discussion of even the upper mantle. The X-ray static compression measurements have a pressure range to 300 kb, but are limited to room temperature and to only the pure compression properties K_T and p. Finally, although the shock-wave techniques can generate pressures comparable to those found throughout the earth's mantle and core, the shock-produced states are characterized by pressure and internal energy. Thus an E(T, P) equation of state is required before the data can effectively be used. Further, like static compression experiments, the shock technique now yields only K and p.

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