Deep beneath the African continent, researchers have discovered rhythmic pulses of molten mantle rock rising from the Earth’s core. The finding, published in Nature Geoscience, reveals how these pulsations are tearing the continent apart and forming a new ocean.
Led by Dr. Emma Watts at Swansea University, the team of scientists collected over 130 volcanic rock samples from across the Afar region and used advanced statistical modeling to investigate the structure of the crust and mantle beneath Africa. Their results show that underneath the region lies a single, asymmetric plume with distinct chemical bands repeating across the rift system.
The pulsing nature of this hot upwelling, sometimes referred to as a plume, has significant implications for understanding Earth’s interior and surface interaction. The Afar region is a unique location where three tectonic rifts converge, providing a window into the Earth’s interior.
According to Dr. Tom Gernon, Professor of Earth Science at the University of Southampton, “The chemical striping suggests the plume is pulsing like a heartbeat.” These pulses behave differently depending on the thickness of the plate and how fast it’s pulling apart, with faster-spreading rifts like the Red Sea experiencing more efficient and regular pulse travel.
The study also sheds light on links between mantle upwellings and volcanism, earthquakes, and continental breakup. The researchers found that deep mantle upwelling is intimately tied to the motion of tectonic plates above it, focusing volcanic activity on areas where the plate is thinnest.
This groundbreaking research highlights the importance of collaboration among experts across institutions in unraveling Earth’s surface processes.
Source: https://phys.org/news/2025-06-scientists-deep-earth-pulses-beneath.html