Evidence of dark oxygen production at the abyssal seafloor
Researchers found dark oxygen production at the Pacific Ocean's abyssal seafloor with polymetallic nodules. Oxygen levels tripled in two days due to seawater electrolysis, challenging previous beliefs about oxygen dynamics.
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Researchers have discovered evidence of dark oxygen production at the abyssal seafloor, specifically in the Pacific Ocean where polymetallic nodules cover the area. Through in situ benthic chamber experiments, it was observed that oxygen levels increased significantly over two days, reaching more than three times the background concentration. The high voltage potentials on the nodule surfaces led to the hypothesis that seawater electrolysis might contribute to this dark oxygen production. This discovery challenges previous understanding as it indicates a net production of oxygen rather than consumption by deep-seafloor organisms. Various experiments ruled out experimental artifacts and biological mechanisms as the cause of this phenomenon. The study suggests that the presence of polymetallic nodules plays a crucial role in dark oxygen production, potentially through radiolytic processes and chemical reactions. The findings highlight the complexity of oxygen dynamics in deep-sea environments and the need for further research to understand the implications of dark oxygen production on benthic ecosystems.
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