Previously unknown source of oxygen found; implications for life origins?
Scientists discovered "dark oxygen" from metallic lumps in the Pacific Ocean, challenging photosynthesis as the sole oxygen source. Nodules emit an electrical charge, sparking questions about life origins and oxygen production in other worlds.
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Scientists have discovered "dark oxygen" being produced by metallic lumps in the depths of the Pacific Ocean, challenging the belief that only living organisms could generate oxygen through photosynthesis. These potato-shaped nodules, rich in metals like cobalt and nickel, were found four kilometers below the ocean's surface in the Clarion-Clipperton Zone. The nodules, described as "batteries in a rock," emit an electrical charge similar to AA batteries, capable of splitting seawater into hydrogen and oxygen through a process called seawater electrolysis. This unexpected finding raises questions about the origins of life on Earth and the potential for oxygen production in other ocean worlds like Enceladus and Europa. The study, published in Nature Geoscience and partly funded by The Metals Company, which plans to mine these nodules, suggests a need to reconsider the evolution of complex life and the possibility of oxygenated habitats beyond Earth. This groundbreaking discovery challenges previous assumptions about oxygen production and opens new avenues for understanding the mysteries of life's beginnings.
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Oxygen discovery defies knowledge of the deep ocean
Scientists find "dark oxygen" produced by metallic nodules in deep ocean, challenging photosynthesis as sole oxygen source. Mining these nodules for metals like lithium and cobalt may disrupt oxygen production, harming marine life and ecosystems. Researchers suggest potential similar processes on other planets.
Metallic minerals on the deep-ocean floor split water to generate 'dark oxygen'
Researchers, led by Northwestern University's Franz Geiger, found deep-sea metallic minerals can generate oxygen, challenging photosynthesis as the sole source. Polymetallic nodules act as "geobatteries," producing oxygen through electrolysis. Deep-sea mining risks disrupting this vital process.
Dark oxygen in depths of Pacific Ocean could force rethink about life
Scientists found "dark oxygen" from metallic lumps in the Pacific Ocean's depths, challenging oxygen production assumptions. These nodules generate oxygen in darkness, rich in metals, with potential implications for life origins.
Mystery oxygen source discovered on the sea floor – bewildering scientists
Researchers found a new oxygen source on the Pacific Ocean floor linked to polymetallic nodules. This discovery raises questions about deep-sea ecosystems and mining impacts. The nodules catalyze water molecule splitting, potentially aiding catalyst development and astrobiology.
Mystery oxygen source discovered on the sea floor – bewildering scientists
Researchers found a mysterious oxygen source on the Pacific Ocean floor, unrelated to photosynthesis. Polymetallic nodules create 'dark oxygen' by splitting water molecules, challenging scientific understanding and raising concerns about deep-sea mining.