In the deep-sea zones of the Atlantic Ocean, beneath the Bermuda Islands, researchers have unearthed a unique geological formation. This massive rocky structure, approximately 20 kilometers thick, situated below the oceanic crust, was previously unknown to science. Its presence may significantly broaden knowledge about the geological processes in this area and aid in resolving several scientific enigmas related to the Bermuda Islands.
The Bermuda Islands rest upon a rise in the oceanic crust, known as an “oceanic swell.” Typically, such structures arise from volcanic activity, but there is no evidence of eruptions on the Bermuda Islands for the past 31 million years. This raises questions about the nature and genesis of this swell, as comparable formations usually degrade under the influence of tectonics and erosion.
In the journal Geophysical Research Letters, scientists published the study’s findings, which utilized data from a seismic station in the region. They examined the paths of seismic wave propagation from powerful earthquakes, traversing the Earth’s crust to depths of up to 50 kilometers.
The analysis revealed an unusual deflection of seismic waves, indicating the presence of an additional geological layer within the oceanic crust of the Bermudas. Normally, the mantle lies beneath the crust, but another intermediate layer was detected here. This phenomenon is rare and poorly understood. Geologists surmise that this discovery will help to better grasp the mechanisms of oceanic swell formation and evolution, and elucidate the singular geological traits of the Bermuda Islands.
The Bermuda Islands are also renowned for mysterious disappearances of vessels and aircraft, but the primary scientific puzzle remains the nature and stability of the oceanic swell in this vicinity. Generally, islands such as Hawaii are generated through volcanic action, where hot magma ascends to the surface, causing the tectonic plate to uplift. However, similar processes have not been observed on the Bermuda Islands for 31 million years, casting doubt upon the volcanic hypothesis.
The recently discovered layer, possessing lower density compared to the surrounding rocks, might account for the seismic wave deflection and the island’s surface elevation. This hypothesis is supported by prior research indicating that the lavas forming the foundation of the Bermudas are low in silicon, suggesting their origin from deeper mantle layers. These layers might have formed during the breakup of the supercontinent Pangaea and the creation of the Atlantic Ocean, explaining the distinct geological characteristics of the Bermuda Islands.
Scientists are continuing investigations of other oceanic islands to locate comparable geological structures and ascertain their prevalence. This will contribute to a better comprehension of Earth’s crust formation and evolution processes, as well as reveal new facets of the planet’s geological past.
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