Discover the First Signs of a Mysterious ‘Ghost’ Plume Reshaping Earth’s Landscape Beneath Oman

Scientists have made a groundbreaking discovery: a ‘ghost’ plume beneath Oman. Unlike typical plumes that cause surface volcanic activity, this one is hidden deep within the Earth.

Ghost plumes are crucial for understanding Earth’s inner workings, including plate tectonics, the evolution of life, and even our planet’s magnetic field. Researchers from an international team recently published their findings, highlighting a plume they named the Dani plume. This study is shedding light on the heat flow from our planet’s core.

The first indication of this plume came from seismic data, where waves slowed down as they passed through the area, suggesting there is hotter, softer rock below. Further evidence came from computer modeling, which indicated the presence of important geological layers at depths of 410 and 660 kilometers (255 and 410 miles).

They estimate this plume to be about 200–300 kilometers wide and potentially 100–300 °C (212–540 °F) hotter than the surrounding mantle. This suggests that it has likely influenced the movement of the Indian tectonic plate for millions of years, possibly still affecting the land in Oman today.

Interestingly, if this is a ghost plume, there may be others waiting to be found. This discovery could change how experts view geological evolution around the world.

Also, these ghost plumes might indicate that more heat is leaking from the Earth’s core than previously estimated. According to the researchers, this could reshape our understanding of how heat-producing elements are distributed, including those trapped in the lower mantle and core.

The research has been published in Earth and Planetary Science Letters, contributing valuable insights into our planet’s complex system and its thermal evolution.

If you’re interested in delving deeper into mantle plumes and their implications, you can read more in the full study here.

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