Swift and Surprising: The Speed of Early Plate Tectonics

A new study led by Dr. Jennifer Kasbohm of Yale reveals that the Pilbara Craton, an early continent, moved at a rapid pace of up to 64 centimeters (25 inches) per year around 2.7 billion years ago. By analyzing ancient magnetic fields and dating rocks from Western Australia, the researchers aimed to understand the nature of plate tectonics during the Archean eon. The findings suggest that early plate tectonics may have been faster due to the hotter mantle and its impact on mantle convection. The study, which took a decade to complete, provides valuable insights into the movement of ancient continents and the evolution of Earth's tectonic processes.