Summary
The composition of rocky planets orbiting other stars (exoplanets) can differ according to silicon, magnesium, calcium, and aluminum content. These differences relative to Earth may impact their planetary evolution and habitability. In previous lab experiments on materials like those expected for rocky exoplanets, the project team found small changes in composition could suppress the cycling of elements necessary for life and cause a long-lived lava ocean. In this project, high pressure and temperature experiments are carried out on materials with a wider variety of element ratios to cover the
