Scientists Suggest Birth of New Oceanic Crust Due to Record Earthquake Activity
Nearly 2,000 earthquakes hit a spot off the coast of Canada in a single day, indicating the potential creation of new oceanic crust through deep sea magmatic rupture.
Understanding the Activity
- The earthquakes are centered on the Endeavour site, located 150 miles off the coast of Vancouver Island.
- The area features hydrothermal vents and is situated on the Juan de Fuca Ridge where the ocean floor spreads apart.
Insights from Scientists
Doctoral candidate Zoe Krauss explained that the region is not part of a subduction zone, where tectonic plates sink into the mantle.
Krauss mentioned that mid-ocean ridges typically produce smaller earthquakes, not exceeding magnitude five, and are unlikely to trigger major seismic events.
Plate Movements
The Juan de Fuca plate and the Pacific plate are pulling apart at the Endeavour site, leading to the formation of linear fault lines and the thinning of the Earth’s crust.
Formation of New Crust
As magma rises to the surface and cools, a new ocean crust is created through this process.
Continuous Monitoring
The Endeavour site is monitored under the NEPTUNE project by Ocean Networks Canada to track seismic activity and crust formation.
Recent Escalation
Since 2018, the region has experienced increased seismic activity, with a significant rise in earthquakes on March 6, where nearly 1,850 quakes were recorded in a single day.
Krauss noted that the earthquakes were likely due to the seafloor reaching its maximum extent and accumulating stress.
