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Two Ancient Supercontinents Discovered Hidden Beneath Earth's Surface

1/31/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Beneath the surface of our planet, researchers have unearthed two colossal supercontinents hidden in the Earth's mantle—one lurking beneath Africa and the other beneath the Pacific Ocean. Estimated to be over 500 million years old, these ancient giants could reshape our understanding of plate tectonics and seismic activity, revealing a complex mantle that defies previous notions of uniformity.

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Story summary

Beneath the surface of our planet, researchers have unearthed two colossal supercontinents hidden in the Earth's mantle—one lurking beneath Africa and the other beneath the Pacific Ocean. Estimated to be over 500 million years old, these ancient giants could reshape our understanding of plate tectonics and seismic activity, revealing a complex mantle that defies previous notions of uniformity.