Seismic signals known as PKP precursors have long puzzled scientists due to their enigmatic nature. These signals emanate from Earth’s lower mantle, scattering incoming seismic waves that eventually return to the surface as PKP waves at varying speeds. The origin of these precursor signals has remained a mystery until recent research led by University of
Earth
When it comes to understanding and predicting damaging storms, researchers are constantly looking for ways to improve their models. One recent study conducted by Dr. Joshua Soderholm and Ph.D. candidate Yuzhu Lin has shed new light on the significance of using real hailstones in storm modeling simulations. Traditionally, scientific modeling of hail has assumed that
The University of Colorado Boulder recently conducted a study that identified 30 new crucial areas for conserving biodiversity in the Southern Ocean surrounding Antarctica. These areas play a vital role in maintaining the ecosystem of the region, which is home to a variety of unique species such as Adélie penguins, Weddell seals, and humpback whales.
The study of massif-type anorthosites, peculiar rocks that formed only during a specific period in Earth’s history, has long perplexed scientists. These plagioclase-rich igneous formations, covering vast areas and containing titanium ore deposits, have sparked conflicting theories about their origins. A recent study published in Science Advances sheds light on the complex relationship between Earth’s
A recent study conducted by researchers at Brown University delved into the ancient temperatures and rainfall patterns of the tropical Andes in South America, shedding light on a 16,000-year climate history affected by changing carbon dioxide levels and global climate events. The study emphasized the importance of understanding the factors driving temperature history in the
Landslides and debris flows are natural disasters that can have devastating effects on communities. While wildfires may grab the headlines for their immediate destruction, the dangers are far from over once the flames are contained. Postfire debris flows (PFDF) are a hidden threat that can occur during or soon after a wildfire, causing further destruction
The recent study conducted by the University of Ottawa, Carleton University, and University College London challenges previous beliefs regarding the isotopic composition of carbon in iron formations from the Saglek-Hebron Complex in Nunatsiavut. Contrary to popular belief, the petrographic, geochemical, and spectroscopic features in the graphite found in these rocks are deemed “abiotic,” lacking any
A recent groundbreaking discovery has provided scientists with the first long section of rocks originating from the Earth’s mantle, the layer below the planet’s crust. This discovery will play a crucial role in unraveling the mysteries of the mantle’s impact on various Earth processes, such as volcanic activity and the global cycles of essential elements
In a recent study conducted by researchers from the University of Cambridge and the British Antarctic Survey, the impact of biomass burning on climate change over the past 150 years was examined. By measuring carbon monoxide trapped in Antarctic ice, the researchers were able to track fire activity and its variability since the 1800s. The
Nature has always been a source of inspiration for scientists, especially when it comes to finding answers to some of humanity’s most pressing challenges. The study of Earth’s geological history provides a unique and long-term perspective on global warming. Throughout history, the planet has experienced periods of catastrophic volcanic eruptions that released vast amounts of
The McMurdo Dry Valleys of Antarctica are as desolate as their name suggests. With towering mountains acting as a barrier to melting glacier water and extremely low humidity levels, this region is known to be one of the driest places on Earth. In fact, there was no record of rain in the valleys from the
Natural disasters, such as earthquakes and landslides, can have devastating effects on communities, infrastructure, and the environment. In a recent study conducted after the 2022 Luding earthquake in China’s Sichuan Province, researchers explored the use of Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) data for rapid prediction of earthquake-triggered landslides. This research has significant implications for improving
Groundwater is an essential resource that sustains plants and ecosystems, supports agricultural production, and serves as a critical component of drinking water supplies. However, the challenges posed by climate change and human activities can threaten the availability of groundwater, especially in regions like southwestern Europe. A recent study published in Communications Earth & Environment by
In a groundbreaking study published in the journal Nature Cities, a team of Earth scientists, environmental engineers, and geomaticists have uncovered a surprising trend in urban development. Contrary to historical patterns of outward expansion, cities around the world are now growing more vertically than horizontally. This shift in urban growth has significant implications for city
The recent study led by researchers at McGill University sheds light on the potential impact of Antarctic ice melt on rising sea levels. It emphasizes the crucial role that carbon emissions play in influencing the rate of ice loss from the continent. The findings suggest that if carbon emissions are not reduced swiftly in the
Predicting tipping points for critical Earth system components such as the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC), polar ice sheets, and tropical rainforests is a daunting task due to significant uncertainties. A recent study published in Science Advances highlights the challenges in accurately forecasting when these tipping events might occur in response to human-caused global warming.