Story perspectives

Study Reveals Early Formation of Earth's Continents

9/10/2025

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Summary

Story summary

A new study reveals Earth recycled its crust and formed continents earlier than previously believed.
Researchers analyzed melt inclusions in green olivine crystals, indicating early subduction and rapid crust growth.
Findings suggest active tectonic behavior during the Hadean, challenging the stagnant early Earth concept.
Up to 80% of today’s continental crust may have formed by the late Hadean.
The research impacts early climate models and the origins of life.

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Story summary

A new study reveals Earth recycled its crust and formed continents earlier than previously believed.
Researchers analyzed melt inclusions in green olivine crystals, indicating early subduction and rapid crust growth.
Findings suggest active tectonic behavior during the Hadean, challenging the stagnant early Earth concept.
Up to 80% of today’s continental crust may have formed by the late Hadean.
The research impacts early climate models and the origins of life.