Wednesday, October 20, 1999

SMU Geophysicists Discover Large Blob Deep In The Earth

Southern Methodist University geophysicists, using the latest in seismic technology, have discovered a large blob of concentrated matter deep within the earth that may provide clues to better understanding of geological activities on our planet's surface.

The concentrated matter, located more than 500 miles under the western Caribbean Sea, is about 80 miles thick by 380 miles tall, almost vertical, and is believed to be slowly descending vertically like the colored substance in a lava lamp. Scientists believe it may be an old subductive slab, but they are not certain how it moves.

SMU's Ileana Madalina Tibuleac made the surprising discovery while analyzing data gathered by sophisticated seismic equipment designed to detect underground nuclear tests. The equipment, which is being developed at SMU, is used to verify compliance with the international Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty now pending in Congress.

Wednesday, October 20, 1999

SMU Geophysicists Discover Large Blob Deep In The Earth

Southern Methodist University geophysicists, using the latest in seismic technology, have discovered a large blob of concentrated matter deep within the earth that may provide clues to better understanding of geological activities on our planet's surface.

The concentrated matter, located more than 500 miles under the western Caribbean Sea, is about 80 miles thick by 380 miles tall, almost vertical, and is believed to be slowly descending vertically like the colored substance in a lava lamp. Scientists believe it may be an old subductive slab, but they are not certain how it moves.

SMU's Ileana Madalina Tibuleac made the surprising discovery while analyzing data gathered by sophisticated seismic equipment designed to detect underground nuclear tests. The equipment, which is being developed at SMU, is used to verify compliance with the international Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty now pending in Congress.