Robust Normal Mode Constraints on Inner-Core Anisotropy from Model Space Search

This is a Preprint and has not been peer reviewed. The published version of this Preprint is available: https://doi.org/10.1126/science.1078159. This is version 1 of this Preprint.

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Authors

Caroline Beghein , Jeannot Trampert

Abstract

A technique for searching full model space that was applied to measurements of anomalously split normal modes showed a robust pattern of P-wave and S-wave anisotropy in the inner core. The parameter describing P-wave anisotropy changes sign around a radius of 400 kilometers, whereas S-wave anisotropy is small in the upper two-thirds of the inner core and becomes negative at greater depths. Our results agree with observed travel-time anomalies of rays traveling at epicentral distances varying from 150° to 180°. The models may be explained by progressively tilted hexagonal close-packed iron in the upper half of the inner core and could suggest a different iron phase in the center.

DOI

https://doi.org/10.31223/osf.io/qu75c

Subjects

Earth Sciences, Geophysics and Seismology, Physical Sciences and Mathematics

Keywords

Seismic anisotropy, Inverse theory, model space search, normal modes, inner core

Dates

Published: 2017-11-03 12:57

License

Academic Free License (AFL) 3.0