Scientists Discover Sixth Ocean Hidden in Earth’s Mantle

October 4, 2024

Scientists have discovered a vast water reservoir approximately 700 kilometers beneath the Earth’s surface, potentially three times larger than all the planet’s surface oceans combined. This groundbreaking finding challenges previous beliefs about the origins of Earth’s water and reveals new complexities in the planet’s geological processes.

Discovery Overview

Researchers from Northwestern University identified this massive underground ocean within Earth’s mantle using advanced seismic analysis. By examining data from over 2,000 seismographs and analyzing more than 500 earthquakes, they detected a significant slowdown in seismic wave velocity at depth, indicating the presence of water.

Role of Ringwoodite

The water is not liquid but trapped within a blue mineral called ringwoodite. This mineral has the unique ability to absorb water into its crystal structure, effectively storing vast amounts of water in a compact form.

Implications for Earth’s Water Cycle

This discovery supports the theory that Earth’s oceans may have originated from water stored within the planet itself, rather than from external sources like comets. It also suggests that this deep reservoir plays a crucial role in maintaining the stability of surface oceans over geological time scales.

Future Research Directions

The research team plans to collect more seismic data from around the world to determine if this mantle water is a global phenomenon. Further studies could significantly enhance our understanding of Earth’s water cycle and the intricate interactions between the planet’s interior and surface.

This remarkable finding not only reshapes our understanding of Earth’s geology but also underscores the importance of continued exploration and study of the planet’s inner workings.

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