GenZ News

Article View

Deep-living microbes could 'eat' energy generated by earthquakes

204d ago
Science
New Scientist
Scientific discovery
Scientists have discovered that deep-living microbes may be able to utilize energy generated by earthquakes. Fracturing rocks in underground faults during seismic activity produces various chemical compounds. These compounds, such as hydrogen and methane, can serve as energy sources for microbial life thriving in the Earth's deep subsurface. This finding suggests a previously unknown mechanism for sustaining life in extreme environments and expands our understanding of the potential for life in the Earth's crust. Further research could explore the implications for understanding the carbon cycle and the distribution of subsurface microbial communities.
Source