The Earth never fails to surprise us with its incredible phenomena, and recent research has added another fascinating discovery to the list. It suggests that 'fountains of diamonds' could potentially erupt from the depths of the Earth's core during significant geological events. This groundbreaking finding comes from the work of Thomas Gernon, a professor of Earth and climate science at the University of Southampton.
Diamonds, which are formed approximately 150 kilometers beneath the Earth's surface, can be propelled upwards through kimberlite eruptions. These eruptions can travel at astonishing speeds of up to 133 kilometers per hour and create massive explosions upon reaching the surface. This captivating research was published in the scientific journal Nature.
Gernon and his team delved into the nature of these kimberlite eruptions and made a significant observation: these explosive events tend to occur roughly 22 to 30 million years after the initial separation of tectonic plates. As an example, the research highlighted a case that occurred approximately 25 million years after the supercontinent Gondwana began breaking apart, in what is now known as parts of Africa and South America.
The process of plates pulling apart causes a mixing and flowing of rock from the upper mantle and lower crust. This activity leads to instability and ultimately triggers these remarkable eruptions. Furthermore, the interaction between rock, water, carbon dioxide, and minerals like diamonds generates a volatile mixture that rushes towards the Earth's surface. The researchers behind this study hope that their findings can contribute to the search for untapped diamond deposits.
Professor Gernon elaborates on the topic, stating, 'The diamonds have been sat at the base of the continents for hundreds of millions or even billions of years. There must be some stimulus that just drives them suddenly, because these eruptions themselves are really powerful, really explosive.'
This new perspective on diamond formation and eruption mechanisms broadens our understanding of the complex processes occurring deep within the Earth. It provides insight into the formation and potential availability of valuable resources like diamonds. The possibility of future studies exploring unexplored diamond deposits is an exciting prospect, as it could significantly impact our knowledge of Earth's geology and the distribution of precious minerals.
The natural world never ceases to amaze, reminding us that there are always wonders waiting to be uncovered, even in the depths of our own planet. The 'fountains of diamonds' phenomenon serves as a testament to the ongoing exploration and discovery happening in the realm of Earth science.
