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Kimberliteeruptions

All articles tagged with #kimberliteeruptions

science-and-environment2 years ago

"Unveiling the Secrets Behind Diamond Eruptions and Their Tectonic Origins"

Scientists at the University of Southampton have discovered that diamonds are brought to the Earth's surface by powerful kimberlite eruptions, which are triggered by the movement of tectonic plates. These eruptions, reaching speeds of up to 83 miles per hour, occur at intervals of 22 to 30 million years and are linked to significant geological events like the breakup of supercontinents. The research, which involved statistical analysis and machine learning, could help locate new diamond deposits and has provided deeper understanding of Earth's geological processes.

science-and-environment2 years ago

"Continental Ruptures Trigger Explosive Diamond Eruptions, Studies Reveal"

Scientists at the University of Southampton have uncovered the cause behind kimberlite eruptions, which transport diamonds from the Earth's mantle to the surface. These 'fountains of diamonds' are triggered by major geological events such as the splitting of supercontinents, like the division of Gondwana into South America and Africa. The team's research, which included statistical analysis and machine learning, suggests that these eruptions occur every 22 to 30 million years and are linked to the movement of tectonic plates. This discovery could aid in locating new diamond deposits and provide insights into other volcanic activities.

scienceenvironment2 years ago

"Diamond Fountains: The Spectacular Result of a Major Earth Crust Explosion"

New research led by Thomas Gernon, a professor at the University of Southampton, suggests that the breakup of supercontinents can trigger 'fountains of diamonds' to erupt from deep within the Earth's core. Kimberlite eruptions, which propel diamonds upwards at speeds of up to 133 km/h, are found to occur roughly 22 to 30 million years after tectonic plates start to separate. This geological phenomenon is linked to the mixing of rock, water, and carbon dioxide with minerals like diamonds, creating explosive events that could potentially lead to the discovery of new diamond deposits. The study, published in Nature, provides insights into the timing and power of these eruptions, which have been depositing diamonds at the base of continents for hundreds of millions or even billions of years.