Scientists discover 'lubricant' for Earth's tectonic plates: Hidden magma layer could play role in earthquakes

Wednesday, March 20, 2013 - 14:30 in Earth & Climate

Scientists have found a layer of liquefied molten rock in Earth's mantle that may be acting as a lubricant for the sliding motions of the planet's massive tectonic plates. The discovery may carry far-reaching implications, from solving basic geological functions of the planet to a better understanding of volcanism and earthquakes.

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