# Constraining Mantle Anelasticity Using S wave Amplitudes

> **NSF 01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT** · Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University (VA) · $228,014

## Abstract

Earthquakes generate seismic waves that propagate through the interior of the Earth, with their amplitude gradually decaying as they travel. This reduction in amplitude, known as attenuation or anelasticity, provides crucial insights into the properties of the materials they travel through. By analyzing mantle anelasticity, we can determine key characteristics of mantle materials, including their temperature, composition, and mechanical behavior. These properties are essential for understanding the formation, evolution, and dynamics of the planet. This project aims to improve our understanding of mantle anelasticity by analyzing the amplitudes of seismic waves from a wide range of seismic phases.  This research will establish an improved reference model for mantle anelasticity, which is important for understanding the material properties of the mantle and improving earthquake magnitude estimates.  In addition to advancing fundamental seismological research, this project will enhance geoscience education and outreach. The new dataset and corresponding Q model will be made publicly available, and the educational components will include undergraduate research opportunities, hands-on computer lab modules for geophysics students, as well as science communication through YouTube videos and exhibits at the Geosciences Museum. 

In contrast to the well constrained 1-D seismic velocity structure, the 1-D attenuation structure of the mantle remains poorly understood.  In this propose

## Key facts

- **NSF award ID:** 2432398
- **Awardee organization:** Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University (VA)
- **SAM.gov UEI:** QDE5UHE5XD16
- **PI:** Ying Zhou
- **Primary program:** 01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT
- **All programs:** —
- **Estimated total:** $228,014
- **Funds obligated:** $228,014
- **Transaction type:** Standard Grant
- **Period:** 06/01/2025 → 05/31/2028

## Primary source

NSF Award Search: https://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward?AWD_ID=2432398

## Citation

> US National Science Foundation, Award 2432398, Constraining Mantle Anelasticity Using S wave Amplitudes. Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-06-06 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nsf/2432398. Licensed CC0.

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