Home / Science / Hidden Gondwana Proves Earth's Ancient Landmass Was Massive
Hidden Gondwana Proves Earth's Ancient Landmass Was Massive
11 Sep
Summary
- Gondwana's continental landmass expanded to approximately 80%.
- Formation of Gondwana influenced Earth's climate and explosion of life.
- Ancient volcanic arc around Gondwana preceded today's Ring of Fire.
Approximately 550 million years ago, the supercontinent Gondwana dominated the Southern Hemisphere. While its existence was recognized in the late 19th century, its supercontinent status was debated due to initial estimates of its landmass falling short of the required 75%.
New research, published in Science Advances, has uncovered previously hidden parts of Gondwana buried under mountains. This discovery expands its continental landmass to an estimated 80%, confirming it as a true supercontinent. These findings were derived from analyzing global datasets of granite samples and their radioactive isotope content.
The formation of this greater Gondwana between 750 and 550 million years ago coincided with significant global changes. It is linked to the explosion of life on Earth between 550 and 500 million years ago and the transition of Earth's climate from an icehouse to a greenhouse state.
A massive volcanic arc, stretching from Russia to South America, encircled Gondwana. This ancient ring of fire released vast amounts of volcanic gases, contributing to climate change and acting as a catalyst for the proliferation of life.
