Unveiling Earth's Deep Secrets: Traces of Moon-Forming Impact Found Near Core
A new study suggests that the Moon-forming impactor that collided with Earth may have caused the basal mantle anomalies observed today. The research proposes that the impact generated a dense magma ocean at the base of the mantle, leading to the formation of continent-sized anomalous zones with low seismic velocity. These anomalies could explain the presence of volatile-depleted regions and the segregation of subducted oceanic crust in the lower mantle. The study highlights the importance of the Moon-forming impact in shaping Earth's mantle composition and provides insights into the early differentiation and volatile accretion processes during the planet's formation.