Mapping
Source: TOI
Context: Geologists have discovered a fault in Africa’s Afar Triangle, indicating a potential formation of the world’s sixth ocean
Causes for the rift:
This geological phenomenon is driven by tectonic plate movements, particularly in the East African Rift system. The rift, caused by the separation of tectonic plates, could split the African continent in 5 to 10 million years, leading to the creation of a new ocean basin.
About Afar Triangle:
It is part of the Great Rift Valley in East Africa and is a geological depression known for its significance in human evolution. It overlaps Eritrea, Djibouti, and the Afar Region of Ethiopia and contains Lake Assal, Africa’s lowest point. The region experiences extreme heat and drought, with some of the hottest temperatures on Earth. It is bordered by the Ethiopian Plateau, the Danakil block, the Somali Plateau, and the Ali-Sabieh block. Fossil sites in the Afar region, such as Hadar and Dikika, have yielded important discoveries related to early hominins and human tool culture.
Five oceans on Earth (from largest to smallest):
- Pacific Ocean
- Atlantic Ocean
- Indian Ocean
- Southern Ocean
- Arctic Ocean
