The stagnant bottom layer of convecting magma chambers

Details The stagnant bottom layer of convecting magma chambers The stagnant bottom layer of convecting magma chambers

Oct 1986

adsabs.harvard.edu/cgi-bin/nph-data_query?bibcode=1986e%26psl..80..183j&link_type=abstract

Earth and Planetary Science Letters, Volume 80, Issue 1-2, p. 183-199.

Other

25

Scientific paper

To interpret the many observations made on igneous complexes, a detailed understanding of the structure of the bottom boundary layer is necessary because it is there that most crystallization takes place. Magma chambers are characterized by turbulent convection and cooling through all sides. Focussing on the bottom boundary layer, its evolution is determined by two competing processes: cooling through the floor which yields a stable temperature gradient, and penetration by plumes from the convecting interior. To elucidate the physics of this interaction, we have made a series of laboratory experiments in high Prandtl number fluids undergoing transient turbulent thermal convection. At the start of the experiment, an initially isothermal plane layer of viscous silicone oil is cooled through both its upper and lower boundaries. We investigate a range of Rayleigh numbers of 106-108. We show that a stagnant layer grows at the bottom of the tank. This layer is not penetrated by convective plumes and is not affected by convective mixing. We develop a theory in good agreement with the observations and show that the stagnant layer thickness scales as Ra-1/6. The results allow a detailed model of the temperature regime prevailing at the floor. In a basaltic magma chamber, the stagnant layer reaches a thickness of several tens of meters. A closed chamber has both a well-mixed part and a stagnant part, which implies that crystallization and differentiation proceed in a complex fashion, even if there is no reinjection.

Affiliated with

Also associated with

No associations

Rating

The stagnant bottom layer of convecting magma chambers does not yet have a rating. At this time, there are no reviews or comments for this scientific paper.

If you have personal experience with The stagnant bottom layer of convecting magma chambers, we encourage you to share that experience with our LandOfFree.com community. Your opinion is very important and The stagnant bottom layer of convecting magma chambers will most certainly appreciate the feedback.

Rate now

Comments { 0 }

Profile ID: LFWR-SCP-O-1736795