About 94 Million years ago, massive underwater volcanoes erupted bringing an end to all ocean life. Scientists say a huge mat of organic matter covered the sea floor which today became a valuable source of oil.
But not just the underwater life was affected. Scientists agree that the eruptions influenced the chemical composition of the atmosphere as well. According to the research the event that brought extinction to the underwater life was not that big as the one who killed the dinosaurs but it surely made an impact we still feel today.
Two University of Alberta Earth and Atmospheric scientists have conducted series of researches on the ocean’s floor. They found specific isotope levels of osmium which suggests the presence of volcanic activity underwater.
Researchers say that the eruptions, most probably in the Caribbean region, have opened the way for the annihilation of the ocean life. But it did not come quick; the underwater life was bound for a slow death in 23,000 years. After the eruption, nutrients were released facilitating a rapid growth of plants and animals. In time, these died and their remains decomposed on the ocean floor causing oxygen depletion. What follows are volcanic eruptions which released carbon dioxide and left the ocean without oxygen, meaning the ocean asphyxiated its inhabitants.
Following the destruction of underwater life, the temperatures and carbon dioxide levels above, on the surface, dropped. Scientists say the decaying organic matter emits carbon and carbon dioxide in the atmosphere but thanks to the eruptions these emissions were locked in the ocean floor, turning them into oil.
Well, this is what’s fueling your car.
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