Science

Earth's 'core carbon' may have come from the far reaches of the solar system

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Briefings

A Yale and Columbia study analyzed magma droplets from historic Hawaiian volcanoes (1500-1840 and 1959) to find that Earth's carbon likely originated in the outer solar system rather than forming locally. This suggests planetary development transported materials from the distant solar system to the inner Earth. The research relies on melt inclusions preserved in volcanic rock, which act as microscopic time capsules of ancient materials.

Key points

• Researchers analyzed magma droplets from historic Hawaiian volcanoes (1500-1840 and 1959) to trace Earth's carbon origin.
• The study concludes most Earth's carbon originated in the outer solar system before arriving during late planetary development.

Context

This research challenges the long-held view that Earth's carbon formed primarily from local volcanic processes. By examining melt inclusions from specific historical eruptions, the study provides a timeline for when solar system materials could have reached Earth, offering a new perspective on planetary accretion and early Earth chemistry.

Limitations

The analysis relies on melt inclusions from specific historical eruptions (1500-1840 and 1959) rather than continuous geological records. The study does not provide a complete timeline for all carbon delivery to Earth, nor does it account for potential local carbon sources that may have contributed alongside distant materials.

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