High-to-low spin transition in iron in Magnesiow\"{u}stite: elastic properties*

The high-to-low spin transition in iron in Magnesiow\"{u}stite (Mw), Mg$_{(1-x)}$Fe$_{x}$,O, is accompanied by considerable volume reduction. This changes the elastic properties of Mw across this transition. Using an LDA+U method with consistently calculated Hubbard U, we investigate the elastic signature of this transition. We find temperature sensitive changes in elasticity across this transition. In Earth's lower mantle, this transition should occur continuously and leave behind an unnoticeable sign.