Crushed resistance
Researchers propose that crushing large olivine crystals reduces plate resistance, allowing it to bend into segments. Simulations support observations from nature, including fault patterns and seismic velocity structure.
Search results for “Geophysics”
1,000+ results for "Geophysics"
Machine learning refines earthquake detection capabilities
A new machine learning-based tool enables automatic ground deformation detection at a global scale, improving earthquake detection and understanding tectonic fault behavior. The approach reveals slow earthquakes twice as extensive as previously recognized, shedding light on the physics of active faults.
Radiocarbon is key to understanding Earth’s past
Recent advances in radiocarbon knowledge have improved our understanding of climate processes, solar activity, geophysics, and the carbon cycle. Researchers developed a more detailed record of atmospheric radiocarbon extending back 55,000 years, helping to understand Earth's past and project future changes.
Roman noblewoman’s tomb reveals secrets of ancient concrete resilience
Researchers discovered that volcanic aggregate and chemical interactions strengthen Caecilia Metella's tomb, exceeding male contemporaries' monuments. The study, published in the Journal of the American Ceramic Society, shows how leucite crystals dissolve over time to remodel concrete cohesion.
SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalJournal of the American Ceramic Society·TypeObservational study·DateOct 8, 2021
Stress in earth’s crust determined without earthquake data
Researchers create novel approach to map stress orientation in the Earth's crust using nonlinear elastic behavior and rock properties. This technique provides valuable insights into continental regions with limited historical geologic information.
Earth’s ‘solid’ inner core may contain both mushy and hard iron
Scientists have discovered a heterogeneous structure in the Earth's inner core, with adjacent regions of hard, soft, and liquid iron alloys. This finding challenges traditional models of the planet's magnetic field generation and provides new insights into the dynamics at the boundary between the inner and outer core.
SourceUniversity of Hawaii at Manoa·JournalPhysics of The Earth and Planetary Interiors·TypeObservational study·DateOct 5, 2021
New landslides on US West Coast detected by SMU scientists
Researchers detected over 600 slow-moving landslides in western US states using satellite radar imagery. Most were in mountain ranges, near towns and roads, with some at risk of shifting due to earthquakes or rainfall. Landslides cause thousands of deaths worldwide each year.
SourceSouthern Methodist University·JournalLandslides·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 24, 2021
Climatically driven landscape evolution during warm periods
A comprehensive investigation of a lake landscape in southern Wendland reveals that strong rises and falls in water levels were caused by climate changes, soil erosion, and vegetation. The study provides valuable insights into how landscapes respond to climatic shifts and offers clues for predicting future changes.
SourceMax Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology·JournalEarth Surface Processes and Landforms·DateSep 16, 2021
Tea time gets flavor boost from thin film, impure water
Researchers found that thin films in black tea are strengthened by chemically hardened water, making it suitable for packaged tea beverages. Conversely, acidic components like citrus reduce film visibility and add flavor to dried tea mixes.
Dartmouth Engineering receives $1.25M from NASA to study space ice
The Dartmouth Engineering team will conduct research on planetary science relating to icy planets' geophysics and astrobiology, aiming to understand the nature of these worlds and their habitability. The project will provide valuable tools for interpreting measurements taken by future missions.
Lunar samples solve mystery of the moon’s supposed magnetic shield
Researchers at the University of Rochester found that lunar samples do not show signs of magnetization from a magnetic shield. The lack of magnetization suggests that the moon has never had a prolonged dynamo field. Without this protection, solar wind implanted volatiles like helium 3 in the lunar soil.
Lava lamp tectonics: Research suggests giant blobs of subducted sediment float up through deep Earth
Computer modeling suggests giant blobs of subducted sediment floated up through deep Earth, forming enormous diapirs. These rocks are now found in places like the Mojave Desert and western Arizona.
Managing earthquakes triggered by oil production
A multidisciplinary team of scientists developed a method to dispose wastewater safely, reducing the danger of triggering earthquakes. The approach was tested in Italy's largest onshore oil field and found to be sustainable.
Research aims to unlock secrets of magma transport below the ocean floor
Geophysicists use anisotropy of magnetic susceptibility (AMS) and geochemical analyses to map out magma pathways along over 100 km of the Oman spreading axis. This project aims to provide greater understanding of dynamic processes occurring at depth beneath the seafloor.
The anatomy of a planet
Researchers from ETH Zurich analyzed data from NASA's InSight mission, revealing that Mars' crust, mantle, and core have distinct structures. The findings suggest that Mars was once completely molten, but now has a thinner crust with a relatively high proportion of radioactive elements.
Survey finds bullying and harassment systemic in astronomy and geophysics
A survey of over 650 astronomers and geophysicists reveals a systemic bullying problem, with disabled and black/minority ethnic individuals facing higher rates of bullying. Women and non-binary individuals are also more likely to experience bullying and harassment in the workplace.
RAS launches new multi-disciplinary journal
The Royal Astronomical Society has launched a new gold open access journal, RAS Techniques and Instruments, to bridge the gap between generalist and specialist journals in these fields. The journal will publish high-quality papers on instrumentation, data science, machine learning, software, and numerical methods.
3D printed replicas reveal swimming capabilities of ancient cephalopods
Researchers used 3D printing and water tank experiments to study ancient cephalopod movement. They found that straight-shelled orthocones likely lived a vertical life, jetting up and down to catch food and evade predators.
Researchers reveal cause of Jupiter's x-ray aurorae
A research team has explained the cause of Jupiter's X-ray aurorae, a phenomenon puzzling scientists for decades. The study found that heavy ions with mega-electron volt energies produce the auroral flares, triggered by magnetic compression and electromagnetic waves in Jupiter's magnetosphere.
Sea-level rise may worsen existing Bay Area inequities
Researchers found that coastal communities in San Mateo County are at risk of financial instability from flooding, with lower-income households disproportionately affected. The study's new methodology aims to provide a human-centered approach to risk assessment, focusing on the residents most likely to lose their livelihoods when water...
Hinnov coordinates new multi-university collaboration
A new three-year project funded by the Heising-Simons Foundation is integrating science from paleoclimatology, geophysics, and astronomy to study the evolution of the Solar System and Earth-Moon dynamics. The CycloAstro Project will also investigate the Earth's paleoclimate system and improve cyclostratigraphy and astrochronology.
Crustal block tectonics offer clues to Venus' geology, study finds
A recent analysis of Venus' surface found evidence of tectonic motion in the form of crustal blocks that have jostled against each other, indicating that Venus is still geologically active. This discovery provides insight into exoplanet tectonics and the earliest tectonic activity on Earth.
Subsurface geophysics is key to geological carbon dioxide storage
A proposed project aims to detect seismic faults and fractures using 3D imaging to reduce the risk of injecting carbon dioxide. By imaging small-scale fractures, it's possible to estimate fluid leakage pathways.
Climate change leads to unprecedented Rocky Mountain wildfires
The 2020 fire season marked a turning point in the history of high-elevation forests in the Rocky Mountains. Researchers found that fires are now burning nearly twice as much area on average compared to the last 2,000 years. This increased frequency and severity pose significant risks for forest resilience and regeneration.
Researchers use transoceanic fiber link for geophysical sensing
Scientists demonstrate a new technique to sense geophysical events using transoceanic fiber optic cables, offering potential for early warnings of tsunamis and earthquakes. The method measures tiny changes in polarization of transmitted light, enabling monitoring of previously inaccessible ocean depths.
'Slow slip' earthquakes' hidden mechanics revealed
Researchers used seismic CT scans and supercomputers to study slow slip earthquakes in New Zealand's Hikurangi subduction zone. The study found that tectonic forces build up before releasing through slow motion tremors, revealing key processes involved in modulating slow slip.
Airborne radar reveals groundwater beneath glacier
Researchers have successfully detected groundwater beneath Hiawatha Glacier in Greenland using airborne ice-penetrating radar. The discovery could greatly impact sea-level rise projections by enabling the study of water flow through ice sheets at a continental scale.
Glaciologists measure, model hard glacier beds, write slip law to estimate glacier speeds
Glaciologists have created a new slip law to measure the relationship between forces and glacier speed. The study uses high-resolution measurements of glacier beds and digital models to estimate glacier speeds, which can be used to predict sea level rise.
Fossilized tracks show earliest known evidence of mammals at the seashore
A study published in Scientific Reports reveals fossilized tracks from the brown bear-sized Coryphodon, showing that large-bodied mammals regularly used marine environments after non-avian dinosaurs went extinct. The discovery is significant as it provides evidence of early mammal behavior and evolution.
New algorithm to ensure more accuracy in studying the interior of the Earth
Geophysicists at St. Petersburg State University have developed an algorithm to combine electrical resistivity tomography (ERT) and radiomagnetotelluric (RMT) methods for more accurate subsurface imaging. The joint inversion of CSRMT and ERT data provides a closer match to borehole data, improving the accuracy of geophysical exploration.
SourceSt. Petersburg State University·JournalJournal of Environmental and Engineering Geophysics·DateMay 12, 2021
Contrary to previous belief, strike-slip faults can generate large tsunamis
A new study explains that strike-slip faults, which were previously believed to trigger only small tsunamis, can generate unusually large waves like the devastating Palu tsunami in 2018. Researchers discovered a mechanism for these massive tsunamis to form, suggesting other coastal cities may need to reevaluate their risk level.
SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 3, 2021
Local impacts from fracking the Eagle Ford
Researchers at Stanford University simulated the risk of fracking-triggered earthquakes on the Eagle Ford shale formation, finding that densely populated areas face the greatest risk of damage. The study aims to provide a shared frame of reference for discussing risks and evaluating tools for managing earthquake hazards.
Scientists probe mysterious melting of Earth's crust in western North America
A team of researchers identified an unusual belt of igneous rocks stretching over 2,000 miles from Canada to Mexico, defying expectations of volcanic activity. The rock formation, dated to 80-50 million years ago, originated deep underground and lacks evidence of volcanoes.
Can extreme melt destabilize ice sheets?
Researchers at Stanford University used a new approach to analyze radar data to show that extreme melt events can create persistent structural changes in the ice sheet, reducing its ability to store meltwater. This change can lead to slippery conditions on the ice bed and speed up the ice sheet's melting.
Ancient ammonoids' shell designs may have aided buoyancy control
Researchers used 3-D printed models to explore fractal-like interior shell patterns in ancient ammonoids. The study suggests that the intricate sutures and septa may have retained more liquid through surface tension, helping the ammonoids fine-tune their buoyancy.
UT begins offshore search for sand resources to protect Texas from coastal erosion
Scientists are searching for sunken treasure that holds key to protecting Texas' Gulf shoreline from storms and rising seas. They will create a high-resolution seismic map of ancient river valleys to estimate volume and quality of sand.
A song of ice and fiber
Sandia National Laboratories has successfully analyzed the first seafloor dataset from under Arctic sea ice using a new underwater technique. The team detected natural and human-caused activities, including ice quakes and transportation activities, while also monitoring for climate signals and marine life.
Kuroshio current may be responsible for climatic discomfort in Tokyo, scientists find
Researchers found that the Kuroshio Current's large meander is responsible for increased humidity and temperature in Tokyo, leading to 160% more discomfort days. The study uses satellite data to examine the impact of ocean currents on regional climate.
New basalt type discovered beneath the ocean
An international team of researchers has discovered a new type of basalt beneath the Pacific Ocean, which was formed during large and exceptionally hot volcanic eruptions. The discovery suggests that ocean floor eruptions sourced in the Earth's mantle were even hotter and more voluminous than previously thought.
UH geologists discover powerful 'river of rocks' below Caribbean
A team of researchers from the University of Houston found that the asthenosphere, a hot and softer layer beneath tectonic plates, is flowing vigorously, driving plate motions. This 'river of rocks' has been actively flowing for eight million years, shaping the Earth's surface and influencing earthquakes.
Internet fiber optics could provide valuable insight into geological phenomena
A team of researchers at Penn State has developed a method to turn existing telecommunication infrastructure into a valuable resource for monitoring ground vibrations. By using fiber-optic distributed acoustic sensing technology, they can detect a wide variety of signal vibrations, including those caused by earthquakes, music concerts,...
Positive reinforcements help algorithm forecast underground natural reserves
Researchers at Texas A&M University have developed an algorithm that uses reinforcement learning to automate the prediction of subsurface environments. The algorithm accurately forecasts oil and gas reserves by providing feedback on rewards and penalizing unfavorable predictions.
Drones used to locate dangerous, unplugged oil wells
Using drones equipped with magnetometers, researchers can detect magnetic anomalies and pinpoint the location of unplugged oil wells. By locating these wells, the equivalent of nearly 750,000 metric tons of carbon dioxide could be removed from the atmosphere.
Researchers trace geologic origins of Gulf of Mexico 'super basin' success
The Gulf of Mexico holds vast untapped offshore oil deposits, thanks to a remarkable geologic past that began 200 million years ago. A unique combination of fine- and coarse-grained sediments, salt layers, and seals has made the basin a formidable petroleum resource.
Study find physical weathering of rock breakdown more important than previously recognized
A study by the University of Wyoming reveals that climate and erosion rates significantly impact the relative importance of physical and chemical weathering in rock breakdown. Anisovolumetric weathering, a previously underrecognized process, is now recognized as a common occurrence, influenced by environmental conditions.
Crystals may help reveal hidden Kilauea Volcano behavior
By analyzing crystal orientations from a 1959 Kilauea eruption, researchers inferred magma flow patterns prior to eruption, shedding light on past and potential future eruptions. The study's findings offer new insights into conduit dynamics, aiding in hazard prediction and monitoring.
Offshore submarine freshwater discovery raises hopes for islands worldwide
Researchers have mapped a vast freshwater reservoir off the coast of Hawaii Island, revealing a new mechanism for transporting freshwater from onshore to offshore aquifers. This discovery has significant implications for sustainable development on volcanic islands, potentially providing alternative renewable resources.
Love waves from the ocean floor
Researchers decoded the origin of love waves, generated by ocean storms, which travel through the solid Earth. Stanford University geophysicist Lucia Gualtieri's study suggests that Love waves originate within the Earth itself, not on the seafloor.
East African Rift System is slowly breaking away, with Madagascar splitting into pieces
A new study has revealed that the East African Rift System is slowly breaking away, with Madagascar splitting into pieces. The research, led by D. Sarah Stamps of Virginia Tech, found that the break-up process is more complex and distributed than previously thought.
Retreating glacier presents landslide threat, tsunami risk in Alaskan fjord
A study using NASA satellite imagery reveals a landslide-generated tsunami threat in Barry Arm, Alaska, which could affect the surrounding area within the next 20 years. The glacier's rapid retreat has caused the terrain to become unstable, leading to a potential 3,000-foot landslide into the fjord below.
Distinct slab interfaces found within mantle transition zone
Researchers observed two distinct seismic discontinuities in the mantle transition zone, representing the upper and lower boundaries of a subducted Pacific high-velocity slab. The study suggests a compositionally layered slab with high-water contents beneath the slab, challenging existing knowledge on slab interfaces.
Using a volcano's eruption 'memory' to forecast dangerous follow-on explosions
Researchers from Italy's INGV and University of Bristol create historical catalog to estimate frequency of violent explosive events and investigate temporal recurrence relationship between eruptions. The study suggests a 50% probability of another paroxysm within 12 months after a previous explosion.
Cold vibrations: Researchers to study the movement of thawing Arctic permafrost
Researchers are using a new technology to monitor the movement of thawing Arctic permafrost. A 1.5-kilometer fiber-optic cable will be turned into a long line of vibration sensors to collect seismic data and predict future behavior of the thawing permafrost.
AI detects hidden earthquakes
A new AI-based method has been developed to detect small, imperceptibly tiny earthquakes that occur on the same faults as bigger earthquakes. This technology could provide insights into how earthquakes interact and spread out along the fault, allowing for a clearer view of earthquake patterns.
Interplanetary storm chasing
Researchers Jeremy Bloxham and Rakesh K. Yadav use a 3D simulation model to understand the formation of Saturn's massive hexagon storm, which has remained relatively unchanged for nearly 40 years. The study suggests that deep thermal convection plays a key role in creating the unique shape and persistence of the storm.
Nanocrystals make volcanoes explode
Tiny crystals containing iron, silicon, and aluminium increase magma viscosity, leading to violent eruptions. The discovery explains the mystery of sudden volcano eruptions, providing insights into geochemical processes.
Seismic data explains continental collision beneath Tibet
New seismic data gathered by Stanford University researchers provides the first west-to-east view of the subsurface where India and Asia collide. The study suggests two competing processes are operating beneath the collision zone: movement of one tectonic plate under another, as well as thinning and collapse of the crust.
Undersea earthquakes shake up climate science
Researchers have discovered that seismic rumblings on the seafloor can provide a new way to monitor ocean temperatures, using existing seismic monitoring equipment and historic data. By analyzing sound waves from undersea earthquakes, they can determine changes in ocean temperature at depths normally out of reach of conventional tools.
Climate change impacts astronomical observations
Researchers found a 1.5 ° C increase in near-ground temperature over four decades at the Paranal Observatory, threatening telescope quality due to air turbulence. Climate change also affects image resolution, contrast capabilities, and potentially limits exoplanet studies.
Evergreen needles act as air quality monitors
Researchers at the University of Utah found that measuring magnetic particles on evergreen needles can provide a high-resolution, year-round picture of air quality. The study correlated needle magnetism to general air quality, suggesting a new method for mapping particulate matter distributions at a high resolution and low cost.