A University of Southampton study finds that tectonic plate breakup causes deep Earth waves, influencing continental uplift, climate, biodiversity, and human settlement patterns.
A new study by the University of Southampton reveals that when tectonic plates break apart, powerful waves deep within Earth cause continental surfaces to rise over a kilometer. These waves, triggered by stretching of the continental crust during plate breakup, disturb Earth's mantle and influence factors such as regional climates, biodiversity, and human settlement patterns. Previously stable continental areas have been found to undergo substantial uplift and erosion, forming elevated regions known as plateaus. The findings demonstrate that the same chain of disturbances that cause diamonds to rise from Earth's deep interior also play a significant role in shaping continental landscapes.
August 07, 2024
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