Earth’s Inner Core Slowing Down, Potentially Lengthening the Day: Study

Keywords: Earth’s inner core, rotation, day length, seismology, geodynamics, core-mantle coupling

A new study suggests that the Earth’s inner core may be slowing down, potentially affecting the length of a day. Researchers analyzed seismic waves traveling through the Earth, finding evidence that the inner core’s rotation has slowed since 2010 and may even be reversing direction. This discovery sheds light on the complex relationship between the Earth’s interior and its surface, potentially impacting our understanding of geodynamics and core-mantle coupling.

The study, published in Nature Geoscience, utilized seismological data from the past six decades, focusing on the travel time of seismic waves generated by earthquakes. These waves reveal that the inner core’s rotation has been slowing down since 2010. This change could be related to the gravitational pull between the core, the mantle, and the Earth’s rotation.

While the exact impact of this phenomenon on day length is still uncertain, scientists suggest it could cause subtle fluctuations. This potential shift in the Earth’s rotation, though minuscule, highlights the intricate interplay between different layers of the planet. Further research is necessary to fully understand the implications of this discovery.

This study marks a significant step forward in our understanding of the Earth’s inner core and its influence on the planet’s dynamics. It also underscores the importance of continued research in seismology and geophysics, fields crucial for unraveling the mysteries of our planet’s interior.