Summer Project Description:

MgO is an abundant mineral found in the lower mantle; however its conductive properties at the high pressures and temperatures at which it is found are not fully understood. Studying its conductivity patterns will provide insight into heat transfer deep within the earth. I will work with Tao Sun and Phil Allen to calculate the theoretical and experimental thermal conductivity of MgO at high temperatures.

We will take measurements of the infrared reflection and absorption spectra using Fourier Transform Infrared Spectrometry at Brookhaven National Laboratory. Using this data we can calculate the emissivity and dielectric and optical functions of MgO. With the expertise of Tao Sun and using the software GULP we will calculate the theoretical crystal properties of MgO to compare the experimental results.

Melodie French
Oberlin, OH
Major: Physics
Mentor: Phil Allen