Read, Watch or Listen

Scientists have discovered ongoing lithospheric foundering under the Sierra Nevada mountains. Deep earthquakes, previously unexplained, are linked to this process where Earth's crust peels away and sinks into the mantle. Using seismic wave analysis, researchers imaged the crust's detachment and confirmed the ongoing process, providing insight into continent formation and earthquake activity. This finding could help predict similar events and understand planetary evolution, potentially extending to other planets like Venus.

Prepared by Olivia Bennett and reviewed by editorial team.