Chinese scientists from the Shanghai Astronomical Observatory have discovered that a massive anomaly deep within the Earth may be the remnant of a collision with another celestial body about 4.5 billion years ago. The Moon probably formed as a result of this catastrophe. The study was published in the scientific journal magazine Nature.
The formation of the Moon is still a mystery. The current theory holds that early in our planet’s existence, a Mars-sized protoplanet known as Theia crashed into it. It is believed that the Moon appeared as a result of an interplanetary catastrophe.
Computer simulations showed that the Moon inherited material from Theia, while the primordial Earth (Gaia) received relatively little material from another celestial body.
Using multiple simulations of a massive impact, scientists found that the early Earth experienced mantle separation after the impact. The upper mantle was an ocean of magma from the molten rocks of Gaia and Theia, while the lower mantle consisted mostly of Gaia material.
Another example of the heterogeneity of the Earth’s mantle are two anomalous regions called Large Low Velocity Regions (LLVPs) that extend for thousands of kilometers at the base of the mantle. One of them is located under the African tectonic plate and the other is located under the Pacific tectonic plate. As seismic waves pass through these areas, their speed decreases significantly. The origin of LLVP remains a mystery.
Through in-depth analysis of previous giant impact models and new, more accurate modeling, the research team found that a significant amount of Theian mantle material, representing approximately 2% of the Earth’s mass, entered Gaia’s lower mantle.
Scientists say the study’s findings may better understand the evolution of Earth and other planets.
Previous scientists to create An ancient lost continent in the ocean.