Barbara Borcherds L&S Math & Physical Sciences
Analysis of Earth Models
By analyzing the waves generated by earthquakes as they travel through the Earth, we construct seismic tomography models. These models have helped support the theory of mantle plumes–columns of hot rock rising from near Earth’s core to the surface, driving inter-plate volcanic activity at places like Hawaii, the Canary Islands, and Réunion Island. However, many different models exist, depicting disagreements on anomalies. This summer, I will investigate five leading global models accuracy at reproducing real earthquake data recorded in the south-central Atlantic Ocean, a region rich with mantle plume activity. I will simulate how seismic waves would travel through each model and compare those predictions to actual recordings. The results will help scientists understand the strengths and limitations of current models.
Message To Sponsor
I am grateful to the donors for the opportunity to continue working on a project that I am deeply passionate about. With this funding I will be able to commit my summer to researching about global earth models and provide insight into developments on future models. Having access to do undergraduate research at an institution like UC Berkeley is a big privilege and I am excited to continue with the help of the donors!