The present and future of computational mineral physics: A vision
R. E. Cohen, Geophysical Laboratory, Carnegie Institution of Washington
Current methods of theoretical mineral physics will be reviewed, and future
directions will be discussed.
- What can be learned using first principles methods?
- Why do theoretical studies?
- What is the prognosis for the future?
- How will theory interact with experiments?
Current research concentrates on three main goals:
- (1) better understanding Earth materials in conjunction with experiments,
- (2) making predictions that can be used to guide experiments and as input
to Earth models for seismology, geodynamics, geochemistry, and petrology,
and
- (3) develop new tools which are more accurate and easier to use and disseminate
throughout the field.
Examples will be given for phase transitions and thermoelasticity in mantle
materials, and properties of iron in Earth's core.