A new study suggests that large basal structures in Earth's mantle, called BLOBS, are likely to move slowly over time, which could influence the location of massive volcanic eruptions and potentially impact future mass extinctions. Researchers reconstructed Earth's mantle dynamics over billions of years, finding that BLOBS drift at about one centimeter per year, affecting mantle plumes and volcanic activity.
Recent research reveals that mysterious structures called BLOBS in Earth's lower mantle are linked to volcanic eruptions, acting as 'magma highways' that influence mantle plumes and potentially trigger catastrophic eruptions, with these structures possibly shifting over time due to mantle convection.
New research suggests that mysterious structures called 'BLOBS' deep within Earth's lower mantle influence volcanic eruptions by acting as sources of mantle plumes, which can lead to catastrophic eruptions. These BLOBS are located under Africa and the Pacific and may move over time, affecting surface volcanic activity and potentially aiding in mineral discovery. The study enhances understanding of the dynamic processes inside Earth that drive volcanic hazards.