Earth's Core Makes an Unexpected Pause: What Does It Mean for Our Planet?

Geophysicists from Beijing University have published a study that could overturn our understanding of deep processes inside the planet. According to their data, the Earth's inner core - a mysterious and hard-to-reach part of our planet - has unexpectedly slowed its rotation, and possibly even began rotating in the opposite direction.

Analysis of seismic data collected from 1990 to 2021 showed: until 2009, the core rotated faster than the Earth's surface. However, after that, its movement slowed down and, according to some data, paused or changed direction.

This metallic core, consisting mainly of iron and nickel, is influenced by the Earth's magnetic field and gravitational interaction with the mantle. Changes in these forces can cause a kind of "swing" - cyclical changes in the speed and direction of rotation.

Although such fluctuations are not felt in everyday life, they may have long-term consequences. Scientists warn about possible changes in:

• the structure of the magnetic field, which determines Earth's protection from solar radiation and the stability of navigation systems;

• seismic activity, including the movement of tectonic plates, volcanic eruptions, and earthquakes.

This study is another confirmation that beneath our feet, active and little-studied life continues, full of mysteries and unexpected discoveries.

Source: Pravda.ru