The recent discovery of a new layer forming within the Earth’s core, known as the E prime layer, has opened new doors in understanding our planet. Conducted at the Advanced Photon Source of Argonne National Lab and PETRA III of Deutsches Elektronen-Synchrotron in Germany, the study propounds that this layer was formed due to surface water penetrating deep into Earth, bringing about significant changes in the outer region of the liquid metal core.
Formation of the E Prime Layer
The formation of the E prime layer is attributed to tectonic plates that have been transporting surface water deep into the Earth’s interior for billions of years. Located roughly 1,800 miles beneath the Earth’s surface lies the core-mantle boundary where transported water initiates considerable chemical changes, impacting the structure of the Earth’s core.
Tectonic Plates: The Carrier of Water to Earth’s Core
Tectonic plates act as carriers, ferrying surface water deep into the planet. This fascinating process deviates from common knowledge and introduces a new perspective on how these plates could influence the earth’s internal structure over time. When the transported water reaches the core-mantle boundary, it triggers significant chemical changes, shaping the Earth’s core.
Chemical Changes and Impact on Earth’s Core Structure
Getting deeper into the process, scientist observations show that when subducted water interacts with the materials of the core under high pressure, chemical reactions occur. These reactions result in the creation of a unique layer in the outer core. This layer is distinguished by high hydrogen content and low silicon levels, forming a film-like structure. Resultantly, silica crystals are generated, ascending into the mantle and causing compositional changes.
The Altered Composition of the Liquid Metal Core
The changes occurring in the liquid metallic layer have possible far-reaching effects, including reduced density and altered seismic characteristics. These changes also affect the forming film-like structure layer, which itself carries significant implications and illuminates our understanding of interconnected geochemical processes.
The Significance of the E Prime Layer in Understanding Earth
The discovery of the E prime layer has proposed a more complex global water cycle than previously thought. It illustrates how surface water cycles link with the deep metallic core, shedding light on these intertwined geochemical processes. This finding provides crucial insights into the geology of the Earth, improving our knowledge of the planet.
Previous UPSC Civil Services Examination Questions
In previous years, the UPSC Civil Services Examination has included questions related to Earth’s structure, for instance:
Prelims Q 1. In the structure of planet Earth, below the mantle, the core is primarily composed of which one of the following? (2009) (a) Aluminium (b) Chromium (c) Iron (d) Silicon. The correct answer is (c) Iron.
Mains Q. Define mantle plume and explain its role in plate tectonics. (2018)