what the fuck, that’s wild. also first time I’ve seen an article include one of these ( how plain the Language is is up for debate)
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Plain Language Summary
Plate tectonics provides a basic framework for understanding geological processes on Earth. Although the subduction of cold and heavy oceanic lithosphere can maintain the operation of plate tectonics, its initiation mechanism remains unclear. To reveal the origin mystery of plate tectonics, it is necessary to clarify how and when the first subduction on Earth began. In this study, we propose a hypothetical model that links Earth’s biological processes with the origin of plate tectonics. In the photic zone of the Neoarchean continental margins, the anaerobic metabolism of photoferrotrophic bacteria greatly promoted the massive deposition of magnetite-rich banded iron formations (BIFs). Our mechanical calculations show that within an acceptable sedimentary thickness, these heavy BIF deposits can provide enough downward force to rupture the Neoarchean continental margins and initiate the earliest subduction. The peak deposition of BIFs in 2.75–2.4 Ga further implies the onset time of global plate tectonics.
Just hit me that (it true) this would have preceded the first of life’s known major change to the environment, the Great Oxidation Event. So not only once but twice in an early era life totally disrupted the “normal” surroundings and caused utter chaos for existing life, which had to adapt to a new world. Next question, would these bacteria have been the same culprits?
anaerobic metabolism of photoferrotrophic bacteria
Suggests no? Because the great oxidation was caused by the development of photosynthesis as used in chlorophil. Staring at this page on iron-oxidizing bacteria, none of the key reactions have elemental oxygen as a by-product. Definitely not an expert, could be reading this wrong.
Yeah, definitely needed a real TLDR, thanks. This is one where I’d love like a quanta article to get perspective from folks in the field about how controversial this proposal actually is.
what the fuck, that’s wild. also first time I’ve seen an article include one of these ( how plain the Language is is up for debate)
.
Just hit me that (it true) this would have preceded the first of life’s known major change to the environment, the Great Oxidation Event. So not only once but twice in an early era life totally disrupted the “normal” surroundings and caused utter chaos for existing life, which had to adapt to a new world. Next question, would these bacteria have been the same culprits?
Suggests no? Because the great oxidation was caused by the development of photosynthesis as used in chlorophil. Staring at this page on iron-oxidizing bacteria, none of the key reactions have elemental oxygen as a by-product. Definitely not an expert, could be reading this wrong.
You did more research than I did, so more of an expert than me. Sounds like you’re correct.
their “plain” language is the reason for https://kbin.social/m/science/t/128163/-/comment/501383
ETA: The theory is indeed wild, and I had to read and share despite their attempt at ‘plain language’ .
Yeah, definitely needed a real TLDR, thanks. This is one where I’d love like a quanta article to get perspective from folks in the field about how controversial this proposal actually is.