Effects of core formation

Two sets of earth models have been generated which simulate the process of core formation in the earth. The results allow the evaluation of the distribution of energy release by core formation and thus an estimate of the early temperature profile following core formation. The process itself is likely to have taken 20 Ma or less, although a longer induction period during which some metal phase exists as a melt is probable. Much of the energy (half or more) ends up in a hot core with the mantle relatively cold. These results suggest the occurrence of mantle wide convection, leading to homogenization and the possible stripping of some elements from the mantle.