Mantelbereiche

Mantelbereiche, often translated as "mantle regions" or "mantle domains," refers to subdivisions within the Earth's mantle. The mantle is the layer of the Earth located between the crust and the core. While traditionally viewed as a largely homogeneous layer, seismic and geochemical studies have revealed complexities and heterogeneities that suggest the mantle is not uniform.

These heterogeneities can be broadly categorized into different regions based on their physical properties, such as seismic wave velocities, density, and mineral composition, as well as their chemical and isotopic signatures. These variations are thought to reflect differences in temperature, pressure, and the presence of distinct chemical reservoirs formed during Earth's early history.

Some of the recognized mantelbereiche include the upper mantle and the lower mantle, which are separated by the transition zone. Within these broader divisions, further subdivisions are proposed. For instance, there is evidence for chemically distinct regions within the lower mantle, sometimes referred to as "Large Low Shear Velocity Provinces" (LLSVPs). These are vast areas where seismic waves travel slower, suggesting they may be hotter or have a different composition than surrounding mantle. Conversely, other regions might exhibit faster seismic velocities.

The concept of mantelbereiche is crucial for understanding mantle dynamics, including plate tectonics, mantle plumes, and the long-term evolution of the Earth's interior. Research continues to refine our understanding of these regions and their interactions.