Is Lower Mantle Liquid?
No, the lower mantle is not liquid. Despite the incredibly high temperatures, the immense pressure at that depth prevents the rock and minerals from melting.
The lower mantle, located beneath the Earth's upper mantle and above the outer core, is a solid region. While the temperature is high enough to melt most rocks and minerals under normal conditions, the extreme pressure prevents liquefaction. This is confirmed by various scientific studies and research:
- High Pressure, High Temperature: The combination of extremely high pressure and temperature in the lower mantle creates conditions where rocks remain solid despite the intense heat. Study.com and numerous other sources confirm this.
- Molecular Dynamics Simulations: Studies using first-principles molecular-dynamics simulations have shown how the structure of materials changes under lower mantle conditions, further supporting the solid state. Science
- Comparison with Outer Core: The outer core is liquid due to a different composition and lower pressure than the lower mantle, illustrating how pressure is a key factor in determining the state of matter. Quora
While some localized melting might occur due to specific processes, the vast majority of the lower mantle exists as a solid, high-density rock.
Important Note: While the lower mantle is predominantly solid, it’s crucial to remember that it's not a completely rigid, unchanging structure. It exhibits ductile behavior, meaning it can deform slowly over geological timescales, allowing for processes like plate tectonics.
