Ancient crystals point to a surprisingly early start for plate tectonics.

  • Published In: Sciencemag.org, 2024. P. N.PAG 1 of 3

  • Database: Applied Science & Technology Source Ultimate 2 of 3

  • Authored By: Voosen, Paul 3 of 3

Abstract

New research suggests that plate tectonics, the process by which Earth's crust moves and forms continents, may have started more than 4 billion years ago, much earlier than previously thought. The study analyzed ancient crystals called zircons and found evidence of subduction, the process by which ocean crust sinks into the mantle, indicating the presence of plate tectonics. The findings also suggest that plate tectonics may have played a role in the formation of the first land and the emergence of life on Earth. However, some scientists caution that more evidence is needed to confirm these findings. [Extracted from the article]

Additional Information

  • Source:Sciencemag.org. 2024/07, pN.PAG
  • Document Type:Article
  • Subject Area:Earth and Atmospheric Sciences
  • Publication Date:2024
  • Accession Number:178331365
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