Earth's Deep-Time Geodynamic Evolution Recorded by Hafnium Isotope Perturbations

Abstract

Interactions between Earth's mantle and crust have shaped the planet's evolution through deep time. Hafnium (Hf) isotopes provide a unique fingerprint of magma sources, enabling the tracking of the crucial interaction zone in the upper mantle evolution through more than four billion years of Earth's history. However, previous studies have relied on a combination of evolved and juvenile zircons, making it challenging to distinguish the genuine evolution of mantle properties. Here, we present a global compilation of Hf isotopic analyses of zircons from juvenile crust to track the upper mantle's evolution throughout Earth's history. By employing Singular Spectrum Analysis and Wavelet Analysis for time series, we decompose the complex Hf isotopic evolution curves and determine the respective periods and interpretations of each component. Our analysis reveals a complex and dynamic evolution of the upper mantle, with distinct periods of stability and upheaval. We show that the upper mantle has undergone periodic perturbations through mixing with crustal materials since Earth's formation, primarily caused by plate subduction and weakly influenced by mantle convective cycles. Hf isotopes reveal vigorous mantle convection that propelled plate tectonics during the Hadean, along with numerous supercontinent cycles that originated in the early Mesoarchean and a notable shift in subduction modes during the Neoproterozoic. This Hf isotope survey provides new insights into Earth's tectonic machinery, advancing our understanding of the planet's geological history.