Hidden echoes: Cyclone waves unlock secrets of Earth's core
Scientists have discovered that seismic waves generated by cyclones can aid in studying the Earth's interior. They suspect that mysterious geological structures might be hidden beneath our feet, and their research method will allow future studies not only of our planet but also prove useful during space missions.
Researchers successfully recorded a mysterious echo that can provide a wealth of information about the geological structure of our planet. According to the portal Science Alert, scientists are examining phenomena occurring in ocean waters to better understand Earth's geology. It's the microseismic waves, which arise from the interaction between the ocean and the Earth's crust, that can assist in uncovering hidden parts of the Earth's geological structure.
A new method for studying the Earth's interior
Hrvoje Tkalčić from the Australian National University explains that these studies use microseismic signals as an alternative data source to analyze the Earth's structure beneath Australia. Intense storms, such as cyclones over the ocean, generate acoustic energy strong enough to penetrate through the planet. Studies show that after passing through the Earth's core, these vibrations become significantly weaker and harder to observe.
Tkalčić, along with seismologist Abhay Pandey, searched for these seismic waves using sensitive spiral sensor arrays in remote parts of Australia. They were able to identify these signals in waters near Greenland and Newfoundland, which were stirred by winter storms.
Researchers claim that this new method of detecting signals through the Earth might also prove useful during space expeditions and in studying alien planets.
