The light element candidates such as S, O, Si, and K are discussed for the reasonable compositions in the earth's core since the available data show density difference from pure iron core. These candidates are favored by the some evidences such as depletion in the crust and mantle, and lower eutectic temperature of Fe-FeS melt for sulfur. FeO phase for oxygen, lighter mass than sulfur and solubility in metallic phases for silicon, and partitioning in Fe-FeS melt for potassium. However, other problems such as short experimental data, initial compositions of these elements, and oxidation state during the formation of the earth should be solved simultaneously to confirm these light elements.

• Lee, Han-Yeang(Korea Institute of Geoscience and Mineral Resources (KIGAM), Geology Division)