Dead Sea's unusual chimneys may hold clues to past disasters
Scientists have discovered unusual chimneys on the floor of the Dead Sea that emit shimmering plumes of fluids. This discovery may help in predicting future geological phenomena.
Divers have uncovered mysterious structures on the floor of the Dead Sea resembling smoke stacks, which emit plumes of fluids. According to IFLScience, this discovery might be crucial for understanding the dynamic water system of this region. The Dead Sea, a closed basin, has been losing water for years due to drought, heat, and agricultural exploitation, causing its level to drop by about 1 metre annually.
Unique formations on the sea floor
Scientists encountered these remarkable structures while studying changes in the groundwater system. Dr. Christian Siebert from the Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research in Leipzig explains that although they resemble black chimneys from deep oceanic depths, their system is completely different. These chimneys emit highly saline groundwater, which crystallises upon contact with the Dead Sea water, creating unique formations.
Researchers point out that although the chimneys from the Black Sea resemble those found on mid-ocean ridges, they are entirely different. Firstly, the objects discovered in the said sea are relatively close to the water's surface and emit very salty water. In contrast, black chimneys are located at depths of several thousand metres below the water and emit hot water containing sulphides.
Scientists explain that the formation of these chimneys involves, among other things, old layers of rock composed mainly of mineral halite. Chlorine-36, a radioisotope known as a cosmogenic nuclide, is also significant.
A warning factor in the sea
Experts specialising in sea research claim that the discovered chimneys may serve as a warning factor for sinkholes that have appeared in the Black Sea over the last few decades. Simultaneously, as part of an international programme, scientists are conducting drills at a depth of 1,200 metres below sea level to better understand the region's climate history. These studies are also expected to provide valuable information about past catastrophes and help in better managing natural resources.
Using the latest technology, researchers are trying to overcome challenges related to the extreme salinity of the Dead Sea. The samples collected may reveal new discoveries about one of the saltiest places on Earth and assist in predicting future geological phenomena such as sinkholes, which pose threats to infrastructure and agriculture in the region.
