Mantle Plume Reconstruction by Three-Dimensional Electromagnetic Induction

The Earth’s interior consists of multi-scale structures that range from micrometer-scale mineral assemblages to thousand-kilometer-scale heterogeneities. Mantle plumes are one such mega-scale structure connect the core–mantle boundary with surface. Reconstructing these can provide insights into mantle material and energy convection, as well long-term evolution. However, plume has not yet been convincingly reconstructed by electromagnetic induction, even they have significantly high electrical conductivity compared surrounding mantle. Here we numerically reconstruct employing a deep Earth induction method — geomagnetic depth sounding (GDS). We build conduct inversion tests investigate how different station coverage areas, spacings, noise levels, response period ranges influence construction. test results indicate reconstruction broad 10°-diameter head near transition zone requires area at least 10° × 2° spacing; spacing be increased 5° for 20° area. A continuous two-year record ~5% is sufficient recover head. Plumes types roots distinguished images while narrow tail in lower seems difficult due limited resolution GDS. beneath South China discovered GDS field data. expected used reconstructing important locations contributing study dynamics.