An international team of geologists has uncovered a natural process that brings gold from Earth’s mantle to its surface. The discovery challenges long-held theories and opens new avenues for gold exploration.
Scientists at the Global Geoscience Institute led this breakthrough research. They found that high-pressure fluids deep in the mantle dissolve gold. Then, these fluids rise through mantle convection. When the fluids cool, they deposit gold in fractures within the Earth’s crust. This process forms rich gold deposits over millions of years.
Dr. Lisa Chen, a leading geochemist, explained the findings. “Water under extreme pressure acts as a powerful solvent for gold,” she said. “This mechanism clearly shows how gold migrates upward and accumulates near the surface.” Her team analyzed rock samples from several gold-rich regions. They used advanced computer simulations and field studies to support their conclusions.
Moreover, the study shows that chemical reactions between mantle minerals and water drive gold transport. When temperatures exceed 1,000 degrees Celsius, these reactions occur. As a result, gold moves along fractures in the crust. Consequently, gold becomes concentrated in accessible deposits.
In addition, this discovery may transform how mining companies search for new gold reserves. By understanding the process, companies can target areas where mantle processes have deposited gold. Furthermore, researchers believe that the new insights could lead to more efficient and environmentally friendly extraction techniques.
Also, the study highlights the dynamic nature of Earth’s interior. It reveals that deep Earth processes not only shape our planet but also concentrate valuable metals. Therefore, future research will explore how widespread this mechanism is. Researchers plan to refine their models and study other regions with significant gold deposits.
Overall, the breakthrough offers a fresh perspective on gold formation. It demonstrates that natural processes deep within the Earth can bring gold to the surface. As a result, this discovery may revolutionize gold exploration worldwide and provide new economic opportunities.
