Massive Anomalies in Earth's Mantle Challenge Plate Tectonic Theories

Scientists discover unexpected structures deep beneath the Pacific Ocean, suggesting diverse origins and reshaping understanding of Earth's interior.

Researchers used advanced seismic imaging techniques to identify mysterious high-velocity anomalies in Earth's lower mantle at depths of 900–1,200 kilometers.
These anomalies, found beneath regions like the western Pacific Ocean, appear far from any known subduction zones, defying traditional tectonic plate theories.
The anomalies may represent ancient silica-rich material from Earth's early formation or iron-rich zones formed over billions of years due to mantle movements.
The study utilized full-waveform inversion (FWI), a cutting-edge method requiring immense computational power, providing unprecedented detail of Earth's interior.
While the findings offer groundbreaking insights, scientists emphasize the need for further research to determine the exact composition and origins of these anomalies.