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Science 2 June 1972:
Vol. 176. no. 4038, pp. 1021 - 1022
DOI: 10.1126/science.176.4038.1021
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Articles

Statistical Thermodynamic Model for the Distribution of Crustal Heat Sources

D. L. Turcotte 1 and E. R. Oxburgh 2

1 Graduate School of Aerospace Engineering, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York 14850
2 Department of Geology and Mineralogy, University of Oxford, Oxford, England

The observed linear correlation of surface heat flux in continental regions with the radioactive heat release in the surface rocks is consistent with an exponential depth dependence of the concentration of the heat sources. We suggest that this depth dependence can be explained as an equilibrium distribution of the heat-producing elements in a gravitational field. The eflective mean mass range of the elemental assemblies being differentiated is predicted, and it appears that potassium, uranium, and thorium diffuse upward in ionic complexes with other elements. Similar considerations should apply to the distribution of other elements in the crust and mantle.


THIS ARTICLE HAS BEEN CITED BY OTHER ARTICLES:
Heat flow, radiogenic heat production and crustal temperatures in England and Wales.
S. W. Richardson and E. R. Oxburgh (1978)
Journal of the Geological Society 135, 323-337
   Abstract »    PDF »
Gravitational Effects on Concentrations and Partial Pressures in Solutions: A Thermodynamic Analysis.
F. C. Andrews (1972)
Science 178, 1199-1201
   Abstract »    PDF »


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