Discussion Overview
The discussion centers on the solidus and liquidus temperatures of granite, particularly in relation to pressure conditions within the Earth. Participants explore the variability in melting points due to the mineral composition of granite and seek specific temperature ranges influenced by pressure.
Discussion Character
- Exploratory
- Technical explanation
- Debate/contested
Main Points Raised
- One participant notes that granite, being composed of various minerals, does not have a fixed melting point but rather a range of temperatures defining solidus and liquidus states.
- Another participant expresses difficulty finding specific solidus and liquidus temperatures for granite as a function of pressure, despite researching multiple sources.
- A participant questions whether a specific type of granite is being referred to, suggesting that different granites may have different properties.
- One participant specifies they are considering 'M-type' granite, which is believed to have a mantle source.
- Another participant references Bowen's Reaction Series to explain that the solidus temperature is reached when the last quartz crystallizes, while the liquidus is reached when the last plagioclase or mafic mineral melts, mentioning that pressure's role in melting is discussed in a linked article.
Areas of Agreement / Disagreement
Participants express differing views on the specific solidus and liquidus temperatures of granite, and there is no consensus on the relationship between these temperatures and pressure. The discussion remains unresolved regarding specific values and their dependence on granite type.
Contextual Notes
Limitations include the lack of specific data on solidus and liquidus temperatures for different types of granite under varying pressure conditions, as well as the dependence on mineral composition.