Earth’s early evolution: Fresh insights from rocks formed 3.5 billion years ago

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Last Updated25/02/2024

Earth's age is approximately 4.5 billion years, characterised by vast oceans and frequent volcanic eruptions.
Despite substantial knowledge, gaps persist, particularly regarding the geological processes of early Earth.

Ancient volcanic and sedimentary rocks, dating back 4 billion to 2.5 billion years, hold vital clues.
These rocks, found in cratons, offer insights into past Earth processes.
The Singhbhum Craton in India, dating back 3.5 billion years, provides a significant case study.

They are ancient continental pieces dating back billions of years, offering insights into Earth’s early geological processes.
They host diverse rock groups, including greenstones and granites, preserving evidence of past volcanic and sedimentary processes.

Studying cratons like the Singhbhum Craton in India, South Africa, and Australia provides a window into the Archaean age, about 4 billion to 2.5 billion years ago.
Researchers compared the Singhbhum Craton with counterparts in South Africa and Australia.
Comparative analysis of cratons reveals commonality in explosive-style volcanic eruptions around 3.5 billion years ago.
Understanding these early processes aids in reconstructing Earth's evolutionary history.

Rocks from the Singhbhum Craton were studied in the laboratory, aided by field-based studies and uranium-lead radiometric dating.
Similarities were noted between the geological features of the Singhbhum Craton and those of South Africa and Australia.
Key Findings
- Submarine mafic volcanic eruptions were prevalent between 3.5 and 3.3 billion years ago.
- This contrasts with silicic volcanism, which was dominant around 3.5 billion years ago.

Provides insights into early tectonic activities and Earth's formative years.
Unique geological features, such as greenstone belts, provide invaluable information about early habitable conditions and the emergence of life.
Comparative analysis helps construct a comprehensive model of Archaean geological processes.