The Afar Triangle in eastern Africa is where three rift zones converge, indicating active geological processes. Recent studies propose that rhythmic pulses of molten rock, known as mantle plumes, are responsible for this rifting. Emma Watts led a team conducting a comprehensive analysis of 130 rock samples from local volcanoes, revealing chemical signatures that suggest a significant single plume influences the rifting. Their results bring clarity to the longstanding debate regarding the driving forces behind the plates' movement in this geologically complex area.
The Afar Triangle in eastern Africa is a significant geological location where three rift zones meet, indicative of Earth's crust being pulled apart.
New research indicates that rhythmic pulses of molten rock from deep within the Earth are responsible for the rifting in the Afar region.
Emma Watts and her interdisciplinary team analyzed 130 rock samples to understand the chemical signatures that indicate the movement of molten rock from the mantle.
Their findings suggest that a single plume, rather than multiple smaller sources, is the primary force driving the rifting in the Afar Triangle.
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