On the possibility of phase transitions with the formation of SiO2 peroxide forms in the earth mantle and their effect on mantle convection

Abstract

Based on the hypothesis advanced by S. P. Gabuda that the SiO₂ molecule could undergo a transition from the linear form to the isomeric form with a ring-shaped (bent) structure, an idea is proposed that when the mantle substance melts, a phase transition of the bent SiO₂ form into the linear SiO₂ form can occur in the lower mantle. This phase transition might be of great importance for the lower-mantle convection processes and also for the rise of mantle plumes carrying both heat energy, and broad range of platinum group and rare elements to the Earth surface.