Dynamic Earth (animation)
Earth’s surface elevation and mantle density animated through space and time.
Mantle dynamics are illustrated in this collection of accurate, accessible science graphics, designed to make understanding the movement and behaviour of the Earth’s mantle clear and engaging. These visuals show convection currents, plume formation, slab interactions, and mantle flow that drive plate tectonics, volcanism, and mountain building. Ideal for educators, students, and geoscience enthusiasts, this mantle dynamics graphic collection turns complex geodynamic processes into visually rich, easy-to-grasp resources for teaching and learning about the inner workings of our planet.
Seismic mantle tomography maps
Surface projected global horizontal seismic S-wave velocity anomaly maps for different mantle depths revealing the two large low shear-wave velocity provinces (LLSVPs).
Global-scale mantle flow (sketch)
A sketch outlining the link between the viscous convection within the Earth’s mantle and tectonic surface plate motions.
Earth interior model
Simplified model of the Earth’s interior and its global dynamics featuring a solid inner and a fluid outer core, a viscous partially molten but not fluid mantle, and characteristic surface topography.
Planetary interior
Comparison of suggested mantle convection in the Earth (mobile-lid mode) and Venus (inefficient short slab mode).
Slab-gap dynamics
Sketch of an evolution of an opening and sinking slab gap during oceanic subduction and the resulting surrounding mantle flow.
