New Ocean to Form as Africa Splits Apart – Kompas.com

The Slow Rift: How Africa is Splitting Apart and Forming a New Ocean

For millions of years, the Earth’s tectonic plates have been in constant, albeit slow, motion. Now, a dramatic geological event is unfolding in East Africa: the continent is splitting apart, a process that will eventually create a new ocean. This isn’t a future scenario; it’s happening now, with visible cracks and geological activity reshaping the landscape.

The East African Rift System: A Continent in Two

The division is occurring along the East African Rift (EAR), a 3,500-kilometer-long fissure stretching from the Afar region of Ethiopia and Eritrea down through Kenya, Tanzania, and Mozambique. The EAR isn’t a single, clean break, but rather a complex system of valleys, volcanoes, and earthquakes. It’s where the Somali Plate is separating from the Nubian Plate.

While the separation appears gradual – currently moving at a rate of a few millimeters per year – the consequences are significant. This slow creep is causing earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and the formation of new landforms. In some areas, the rift valley has already sunk below sea level, creating saltwater lakes.

Geological Forces at Play: Mantle Plumes and Plate Tectonics

The driving force behind the EAR is a combination of mantle plumes and plate tectonics. Mantle plumes are upwellings of abnormally hot rock within the Earth’s mantle. The plume beneath East Africa is weakening the lithosphere (the Earth’s crust and upper mantle), making it easier for the plates to pull apart. This is further exacerbated by the broader forces of plate tectonics, where the African plate is being stretched and thinned.

Recent research, published in the Journal of African Earth Sciences, highlights the complex structure of the Earth’s crust in the Afar region. Scientists have discovered that the mantle beneath Afar isn’t uniform; it pulsates, bringing up different chemical signatures. These pulses contribute to the rifting process.

The Birth of a New Ocean: A Timeline

The formation of a new ocean is a geological process that takes millions of years. Currently, the rift valley is filling with water, creating a series of lakes. Over time, this valley will widen and deepen, eventually connecting to the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden. This connection will allow seawater to flood the area, creating a new ocean basin.

Scientists estimate that it will take tens of millions of years for the process to complete. However, the northern part of the rift, in the Afar region, is progressing faster and is expected to be the first area to become fully submerged. Some geologists predict that within a million years, a small ocean will begin to form.

Impact on Human Populations: Risks and Opportunities

The rifting process isn’t just a geological phenomenon; it has significant implications for the millions of people who live in the affected areas. Increased seismic activity poses a risk of earthquakes, while volcanic eruptions can disrupt agriculture and infrastructure. Landslides and ground deformation are also common hazards.

However, the EAR also presents opportunities. The rift valley is rich in geothermal energy, which can be harnessed for electricity generation. The unique geological features also attract tourists, boosting local economies. Furthermore, studying the EAR provides valuable insights into the Earth’s geological processes.

Real-World Examples and Current Activity

In 2018, a large fissure appeared in Kenya, causing significant damage to roads and infrastructure. This event highlighted the rapid and unpredictable nature of the rifting process. Similarly, volcanic activity in Ethiopia’s Afar region is constantly reshaping the landscape.

The Danakil Depression in Ethiopia, part of the Afar region, is one of the hottest and lowest places on Earth. It’s a prime example of the geological forces at work, with active volcanoes, salt flats, and hydrothermal fields.

What Does This Mean for the Future of Africa?

The splitting of Africa is a long-term process, but it will fundamentally reshape the continent’s geography. The formation of a new ocean will alter ocean currents, weather patterns, and biodiversity. It will also create new opportunities for economic development and scientific research.

While the process is slow, it’s a powerful reminder of the dynamic nature of our planet and the forces that shape our world.

FAQ

• How fast is Africa splitting apart? The plates are moving at a rate of a few millimeters per year.
• Will this cause a major earthquake? Increased seismic activity is expected, but a catastrophic earthquake is not inevitable.
• How long will it take for the new ocean to form? Tens of millions of years.
• Where is the most active area of the rift? The Afar region of Ethiopia and Eritrea.
• Is the rifting process dangerous? It poses risks from earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and landslides.

Did you know? The East African Rift is considered a “continental rift,” meaning it’s occurring within a continent, rather than at the boundary between two plates.

Explore more about plate tectonics and geological formations here (US Geological Survey).

What are your thoughts on this incredible geological event? Share your comments below!