Mineral Physics Applied to Earth and Planetary Sciences, April 2026, Vol. 22, No. 2

admin_elements — Mon, 11 May 2026 14:01:07 +0000

Mineral Physics Applied to Earth and Planetary Sciences

April 2026, Vol. 22, No. 2

Understanding the physical and transport properties of minerals is fundamental to decoding the processes that shape Earth and other planetary bodies. Building on the early insights of Haüy, who first recognized the relationship between crystal structure and macroscopic behavior, modern mineral physics now uses advanced spectroscopic, thermal, mechanical, electrical, and magnetic techniques to study materials across all scales—from atomic structures to entire planetary interiors.

This issue of Elements explores how minerals respond to external physical fields and how these responses preserve information about their formation, evolution, and the dynamic processes that continue to operate within planetary interiors. By integrating key concepts in mineral physics with recent technological advances, researchers are uncovering new ways to interpret geophysical data and understand the evolution of Earth and other planets.

Why You’ll Love Mineral Physics Applied to Earth and Planetary Sciences:

Planetary Interior Insights: Discover how mineral properties reveal the structure and dynamics of Earth and other planetary bodies.
Advanced Analytical Techniques: Explore cutting-edge spectroscopic and physical methods used to study minerals at multiple scales.
Understanding Planetary Evolution: Learn how mineral responses to external fields preserve clues about the history and ongoing processes of planetary formation.

Expand your understanding of planetary science and explore how mineral physics continues to transform our knowledge of Earth’s interior and the evolution of the solar system.

Earth’s Carbon Cycle Thermostat: Beyond the Textbook Model, February 2026, Vol. 22, No. 1

admin_elements — Mon, 11 May 2026 13:33:52 +0000

Earth’s Carbon Cycle Thermostat: Beyond the Textbook Model

June 2025, Vol. 22, No. 1

Earth’s geological carbon cycle plays a vital role in maintaining the planet’s climate and supporting life. Often described as a natural “thermostat,” this complex system helps regulate atmospheric carbon dioxide levels and prevents extreme global temperature fluctuations over geological timescales. Traditional models explain this balance through interactions between volcanic degassing, atmospheric CO₂, continental silicate weathering, and carbonate mineral formation.

However, new scientific discoveries reveal that Earth’s carbon cycle is far more dynamic and complex than previously understood. This issue explores emerging theories and alternative mechanisms that may significantly influence long-term climate regulation, including seafloor weathering, organic carbon cycling, ocean alkalinity dynamics, and variations in carbon degassing rates. Researchers continue to investigate the uncertainties surrounding the processes that control Earth’s life-support system and climate stability.

Why You’ll Love Earth’s Carbon Cycle Thermostat: Beyond the Textbook Model:

Climate Regulation Insights: Discover how Earth’s carbon cycle helps stabilize global temperatures across millions of years.
Beyond Traditional Models: Explore new scientific perspectives on carbon degassing, weathering, and ocean chemistry.
Cutting-Edge Earth Science Research: Learn about the major unanswered questions surrounding the planet’s long-term climate and life-support systems.