Introduction

It has long been recognized that atomic interactions are key in understanding large-scale geological phenomena, which is an approach dating at least as far back as the days of Goldschmidt [1]. Conversely, a study of the materials that comprise the planets can tell us much about fundamental physics and chemistry. This line of approach is subsequently exemplified by Pauling's development of the theory of chemical bonding from the structural studies of minerals [2].

Among many facets that revolutionized modern earth science are plate tectonic theory, discoveries in planetary astronomy, and extraordinary technical advances that provide windows on our planet's deep interior. Modern condensed-matter physics, on the other hand, has acquired much impetus from the discovery of new phenomena, the development of new experimental methods, and vast improvements in computational methods. Although physics and mineralogy have continued largely on distinct and disparate trajectories, many recent advances in both earth science and physics stem from science done at the crossroads of the two fields.