The Watchers By Nix – Posted on March 22, 2013
Scientists have debated for decades as to what forces allow the planet’s tectonic plates to slide across the Earth’s mantle. Now, researchers have found a layer of liquefied molten rock in Earth’s mantle, which could potentially be that cause of the tectonic movements. This discovery will also improve our understanding of basic geologic functions of the planet and that of volcanism and earthquakes.
Scientists discovered this magma layer at the Middle America trench off Nicaragua’s shores. They imaged a 25 kilometer (15.5 mile) thick layer of partially melted mantle rock below the edge of the Cocos plate where it moves beneath Central America. Advanced seafloor electromagnetic imaging technology pioneered at Scripps Institution of Oceanography SIO was used for the purpose.
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