A new study has revealed that dark oxygen is being produced deep in the ocean, baffling scientists. The oxygen is being created on the abyssal seafloor where sunlight cannot reach, unlike traditional photosynthesis. Instead of plants, the oxygen is being created by metallic nodules that split water molecules into hydrogen and oxygen. This phenomenon was first observed in 2013 in the Clarion-Clipperton Zone by lead scientist Andrew Sweetman. Despite initially believing his equipment was faulty, he eventually realized the significance of the discovery.
Around half of the Earth’s oxygen comes from the ocean, with sources including oceanic plankton, drifting plants, algae, and some bacteria. However, the deep-sea oxygen production observed in the study is a new and surprising discovery. Mining companies are interested in collecting these oxygen-producing nodules, which are rich in ingredients such as lithium, cobalt, and copper needed for batteries. Sweetman’s study has highlighted the potential risks involved in collecting these deep-sea minerals.
Overall, the discovery of dark oxygen production in the deep ocean challenges traditional understanding of oxygen production and raises questions about the impact of mining activities on this unique phenomenon.
Photo credit
www.usatoday.com
