July 9th, 2024

Earth's inner core rotation has begun moving backwards

The Earth's inner core rotation is slowing down and moving backwards, puzzling scientists about its effects on the planet's magnetic field and day length. Ongoing research aims to unravel these complex interactions.

Read original articleLink Icon
Earth's inner core rotation has begun moving backwards

The Earth's inner core rotation has been observed to be moving backwards, indicating a slow deceleration in its movement. Dr. John Vidale's research from the University of Southern California confirms this unexpected shift, raising questions about its implications for the planet. The inner core, a solid metal ball deep within the Earth, has intrigued scientists for its unique characteristics, including its rotation speed and direction. Recent studies suggest a 70-year cycle of changes in rotational speed, with the core currently spinning slower and even moving in reverse relative to the fluid layers around it. This phenomenon could impact Earth's magnetic field and potentially affect the length of a day. While the research sheds light on the inner workings of our planet, further interdisciplinary investigations are needed to fully understand the complexities of the Earth's core and its interconnectedness with other geological processes.

Related

Rotation curves: still flat after a million light-years

Rotation curves: still flat after a million light-years

The article discusses flat rotation curves in galaxies, challenging traditional theories. Vera Rubin's work in the late 1970s revealed extended flat rotation curves, indicating the presence of dark matter or modifications to gravity theories like MOND. Recent data from the KiDS survey supports this phenomenon, questioning existing models and emphasizing the need for more research.

Structures discovered in the Pacific could change our understanding of Earth

Structures discovered in the Pacific could change our understanding of Earth

Researchers found unique structures in the Pacific Ocean challenging traditional beliefs about Earth's early history. Rock formations in South Africa and New Zealand suggest ancient seismic activities shaped the planet, potentially influencing the emergence of life.

The Mysterious, Deep-Dwelling Microbes That Sculpt Our Planet

The Mysterious, Deep-Dwelling Microbes That Sculpt Our Planet

Microbes in Earth's crust, like Thiothrix and Gallionella species, are reshaping scientific understanding. Geomicrobiologists study these ancient, slow-reproducing microbes thriving in extreme conditions, revealing a hidden world influencing Earth's geology and life evolution.

Earth's core has slowed so much it's moving backward

Earth's core has slowed so much it's moving backward

Scientists confirm Earth's inner core is slowing and reversing its rotation, a mystery since 1936. Seismic waves reveal a 70-year cycle affecting the magnetic field and day length, prompting further interdisciplinary research.

Calculating when a planet will appear to move backwards

Calculating when a planet will appear to move backwards

The article explores apparent retrograde motion in planets, using Venus as an example. It explains how planets seem to move backward in the sky due to orbit dynamics. Mathematical calculations and symmetry between Earth and Venus are discussed, revealing insights into planetary motion.

Link Icon 2 comments
By @birdiesanders - 3 months
This is the kind of thing a younger version of me would have fantasized about, made theories as to the meaning, etc. Old me just said out loud “huh, you’d figure that would mean something, but guess not.”