Earth’s hidden layer has been a topic of fascination for scientists and researchers for decades. Up until now, the Earth was believed to consist of four main layers: the crust, the mantle, the outer core, and the inner core. However, in a recent groundbreaking study, scientists have confirmed the existence of a previously undiscovered 5th layer known as the ‘innermost inner core’.
The Fifth Layer: A Closer Look
Scientists have estimated that the radius of this new layer is approximately 650 km. This layer is made from the same materials as the inner core, namely iron and nickel. The significant difference between the two lies in the way that the atoms are arranged. This innermost layer is believed to have solidified in a completely different direction compared to the rest of the inner core.
The possibility of a fifth layer was first proposed back in 2002. In order to study the Earth’s interiors, scientists use seismic waves. These waves behave differently when they pass through various materials; for example, they travel slower when passing through hot materials. From the analysis conducted, it was found that the innermost inner core slows down the seismic waves at a specific point between the rotation axis and the equatorial plane.
The Understanding of Windsor Framework
Moving away from earth science, let’s delve into the intricate world of international politics and trade agreements. The Windsor framework is a modern solution designed to simplify the complex political challenges that have strained trade relations between the UK and the EU. Its ultimate goal is to replace the Northern Ireland Protocol, which has been one of the most contentious outcomes of Brexit.
Under the previously implemented Northern Ireland protocol, N. Ireland remained within the EU single market, leading to arduous trade inspections of goods transported from Great Britain to N. Ireland. These inspections slowed down trade and caused food products to lose their shelf life. Under the Windsor framework, these issues will be rectified by creating green and red trade lanes for goods traveling into Northern Ireland.
Adenovirus Outbreak
Shifting the focus to health and wellness, West Bengal has reported around 12 deaths due to Adenovirus infection in government hospitals. It is important to note that there is no indication of a viral epidemic at present. Adenoviruses are double-stranded DNA viruses ranging in size from 70-90 nanometres. They can cause a variety of symptoms including cold-like symptoms, fever, sore throat, bronchitis, pneumonia, diarrhoea, and conjunctivitis.
The Possibility of El Niño
Turning to climate science, the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) recently suggested the possibility of an impending El Niño event. After three consecutive years of La Niña, experts believe we may experience unusual warming in the eastern equatorial Pacific waters, a key feature of El Niño. Conversely, La Niña is characterized by cooler waters in the same area. This phenomenon as a whole is known as the ENSO or the El Niño Southern Oscillation. Predictions suggest that an El Niño event could result in warmer summers and weaker monsoon rains in India.