Ancient Microorganisms: Catalysts for Massive Volcanic Events
New research from Rice University suggests that ancient microorganisms may have played a role in causing massive volcanic events. The study proposes that banded iron formations, sedimentary rocks composed of iron oxides, may have served as a bridge linking ancient surface alterations to planetary processes like volcanism and plate tectonics. These iron-rich layers, which formed in ancient oceans, could have been subducted into the mantle and aided the formation of mantle plumes, leading to the eruption of enormous volcanoes. The study's findings could reshape scientists' understanding of Earth's early history and provide insights into processes that could occur on exoplanets.
