Geochemical constraints on mantle dynamics in the Hadean

The xenon record of early mantle dynamics is consistent with extensive loss of volatile elements in the first 100 Myr ASSC, during terrestrial accretion and magma ocean episodes, but also indicates global mantle differentiation that affected both the source of mantle plumes and that of mid-ocean ridge basalts for several hundreds of Myr (e.g., 400-700 Myr ASSC). During this period, the loss rate of volatile elements was at least one order of magnitude higher than at Present, implying a much more thermally active Earth during the Hadean. In contrast, Mars became an essentially static planet during this time period. Our view may also imply that the atmosphere was open for time intervals longer than those generally thought.