What is the geothermal gradient? Describe how the geothermal gradient compares with the melting temperatures of the mantle rock peridotite at various depths
What will be an ideal response?
The geothermal gradient is an increase in temperature with depth, which varies from place to place, averaging about 25°C per kilometer in the upper crust. A typical geothermal gradient is compared to the melting point curve for the mantle rock peridotite; the temperature at which peridotite melts is higher than the geothermal gradient. Thus, under normal conditions, the mantle is solid.
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Indicate whether this statement is true or false.
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What will be an ideal response?
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