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The sub-arc mantle has remained oxidized since the Neoproterozoic oxygenation event

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  • Chun-Tao Liu

    (Zhejiang University)

  • Chen-Yang Ye

    (Zhejiang University)

  • Qun-Ke Xia

    (Zhejiang University)

  • J. ZhangZhou

    (Zhejiang University)

Abstract

The redox state of the sub-arc mantle impacts magma degassing at arc volcanoes and arc-related ore deposits. However, the evolution of the oxygen fugacity (fO2) of the sub-arc mantle during the Neoproterozoic Oxygenation Event (NOE) remains poorly understood. Here, we applied machine learning to identify arc basalts, then calculated V/Sc ratios of primitive arc basalts since ~0.8 billion years ago (Ga). Our results show that average V/Sc remained nearly constant at ~7.16, suggesting an oxidized sub-arc mantle since ~0.8 Ga. This implies that increased surficial oxygen levels during the NOE may not directly oxidize the sub-arc mantle. Instead, its oxidation likely stems from the influx of oxidized fluids and melts via subducted serpentinized oceanic crust. The persistently oxidized sub-arc mantle may have controlled the long-term oxidation of arc magmas and thus influenced the oxidation of Earth’s surficial environments since ~0.8 Ga, though it was not the NOE’s primary driver.

Suggested Citation

  • Chun-Tao Liu & Chen-Yang Ye & Qun-Ke Xia & J. ZhangZhou, 2025. "The sub-arc mantle has remained oxidized since the Neoproterozoic oxygenation event," Nature Communications, Nature, vol. 16(1), pages 1-10, December.
    • Handle: RePEc:nat:natcom:v:16:y:2025:i:1:d:10.1038_s41467-025-62821-8
    DOI: 10.1038/s41467-025-62821-8
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    References listed on IDEAS

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