Scientists from Cambridge University and NTU Singapore have discovered that slow-motion collisions of tectonic plates drag more carbon into Earth’s interior than previously thought.
Continue reading “Earth swallowing up carbon”Predicting supervolcanoes
Scientists say it is extremely challenging to try and predict when a supervolcano might erupt. There is not a single model which can describe how these catastrophic events happen.
Continue reading “Predicting supervolcanoes”Magma chamber union
The nature and growth of magmatic plumbing systems are very important to geology. Traditionally, magma chambers have been viewed as bodies of molten rock or partially crystallized ‘magma mush’ connected to the surface by a narrow cylindrical conduit.
Continue reading “Magma chamber union”Volcano mush reservoirs
A new study finds that volcanoes are not fed by molten magma formed in large chambers, overturning previous ideas about volcanic eruptions.
Continue reading “Volcano mush reservoirs”Surprise undersea volcano
In a new study, scientists suggest that a seamount found previously west of Peru could represent a completely new type of seafloor volcanism, fueled by a hidden, shallow reservoir of magma. Evidence of isolated volcanism such as this could provide a unique window into Earth’s interior.
Continue reading “Surprise undersea volcano”Deep-rooted volcano plumbing
Cardiff University scientists have revealed the depth and magnitude of the internal ‘plumbing system’ that drives volcanic activity around the world.
Continue reading “Deep-rooted volcano plumbing”Earth’s orbit enables life
Scientists at the University of Southhampton have discovered that changes in Earth’s orbit may have allowed complex life to survive during the most hostile climate episode the planet has ever experienced.
Continue reading “Earth’s orbit enables life”Subduction zone initiation
Subduction is the main driver of plate tectonics on Earth. However, the mechanisms of subduction zone initiation remain highly controversial.
Continue reading “Subduction zone initiation”Magma composition
Indonesia’s volcanoes are among the worlds most dangerous. Through chemical analysis of tiny minerals in lava from Bali and Java, researchers from Uppsala University have found new clues.
Continue reading “Magma composition”Mineral defects and earthquakes
Microscopic imperfections in rock crystals deep beneath the Earth’s surface play a key role in how the ground slowly moves and resets in the aftermath of major earthquakes, says new research from the University of Cambridge.
Continue reading “Mineral defects and earthquakes”