The researcher was stunned after discovering a geological phenomenon related to Earth’s sixth ocean.
A new geological phenomenon is revealing the emergence of Earth’s sixth ocean. While it may take millions of years to fully materialize, signs of this development are becoming apparent.
The discovery of the new ocean
Researchers have identified that the African continent is slowly splitting apart. This separation has been ongoing for 30 million years, with the Arabian tectonic plate moving away from Africa.
The Somali plate is also shifting away, causing significant geological changes.
Experts believe that countries like Zambia and Uganda may eventually develop coastlines, despite being landlocked today. This transformation will alter the landscape of East Africa dramatically.
Tectonic plates in motion
The Earth’s lithosphere, which includes the crust and upper mantle, consists of several tectonic plates.
These plates are constantly in motion, leading to gradual changes that may not be visible to the naked eye.
The peer-reviewed journal Geophysical Research Letters has confirmed that a new ocean is being formed. This development is occurring at the intersection of the African, Arabian, and Somali tectonic plates.
Technology aidimgh research
Advancements in technology, particularly GPS instruments, have enhanced researchers’ ability to measure tectonic movements.
Marine geophysicist Ken Macdonald from the University of California explains, “With GPS measurements, you can measure rates of movement down to a few millimetres per year.
“As we get more and more measurements from GPS, we can get a much greater sense of what’s going on.”
These precise measurements allow experts to gain a better understanding of the Earth’s changing landscape.
Macdonald predicts that “the Gulf of Aden and the Red Sea will flood over the Afar region and into the East African Rift Valley,” creating a new ocean.
The future of earth’s sixth ocean
While this new ocean is millions of years away from becoming a reality, the geological processes are already underway.
As the rift continues to widen, East Africa is set to evolve into a separate small continent.
Additionally. Experts assert that this significant transformation marks an important moment in Earth’s geological history.
Earth’s sixth ocean is in its infancy. The ongoing movements of tectonic plates signal major changes ahead.
As researchers continue to monitor these developments, our understanding of Earth’s geological processes will deepen.
In short, the formation of this ocean will reshape the continent and redefine our planet’s geography for future generations.