Scientists Discover ‘Pulsing’ Force Beneath the Earth That Could Split a Continent Apart

Scientists have made an exciting discovery beneath Africa: deep pulses from molten rock in the Earth’s mantle. These pulses act like a heartbeat, and they could eventually tear the continent apart, leading to the formation of a new ocean over millions of years.

The research focused on the Afar region, where three tectonic rifts meet. Emma Watson, the lead scientist, noted that the mantle under this area isn’t just static; it pulses in rhythm and carries unique chemical signatures. "These ascending pulses of partially molten mantle are guided by the rifting plates above," she explained, emphasizing the connection between the Earth’s interior and surface.

Traditionally, scientists believed that this rising mantle pushed the crust upwards, thinning it out. However, researchers combined recent samples with existing data to uncover a more complex story. They discovered an asymmetric plume of molten rock beneath the surface, relating its behavior directly to the motion of the tectonic plates above.

Derek Keir, a co-author on the study, highlighted the implications of this finding. "The evolution of deep mantle upwellings is closely linked to the plate movements. This changes how we view volcanic activity, earthquakes, and how continents break apart."

Recent studies indicate that more than 80% of Earth’s volcanic activity happens at tectonic plate boundaries. Understanding these mantle processes could better inform our predictions about natural disasters in the future.

This important research is detailed in the paper "Mantle upwelling at Afar triple junction shaped by overriding plate dynamics," published in Nature Geoscience. The findings shed light on the dynamic processes beneath our feet that shape our planet over vast stretches of time.

For further insights into tectonic activities, check out resources from the United States Geological Survey (USGS) here.

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