Researchers demonstrated that deep magma can absorb surplus oxygen independently of standard chemical constraints, upending long-held assumptions tied to the electrical charges of elements like iron and silicon. To observe this mechanism, the team subjected synthetic mid-ocean ridge basalt to temperatures exceeding 1,200 °C and pressures reaching 7 gigapascals. Under these extreme mantle conditions, the dissolved oxygen accounted for more than 5% of the molten material's total weight. Ancient eruptions may have vented this stored gas billions of years ago, fundamentally altering the planet's early surface environment.
Key points
Magma absorbs oxygen independently of the typical chemical ratios dictated by elements li…: Magma absorbs oxygen independently of the typical chemical ratios dictated by elements like magnesium and iron.
Ancient volcanic activity may have transported substantial quantities of deep interior ox…: Ancient volcanic activity may have transported substantial quantities of deep interior oxygen up into Earth's early atmosphere.
Recognizing deep magma as an independent volatile oxygen reservoir alters models for inve…: Recognizing deep magma as an independent volatile oxygen reservoir alters models for investigating life and atmospheres on other planets.
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- Date:
- October 28, 2026
- Source:
- Science China Press
- Summary:
- Scientists have discovered that magma deep inside Earth can store surprising amounts of extra oxygen, potentially revealing a hidden contributor to our planet's oxygen-rich atmosphere. The findings suggest that ancient volcanic eruptions may have helped transform Earth's atmosphere billions of years ago, with implications for understanding life on other planets.
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Scientists have discovered that molten rock deep inside Earth can store far more oxygen than previously believed. The finding challenges long-standing assumptions about magma and raises an intriguing possibility: oxygen released from Earth's interior may have helped transform the planet's atmosphere billions of years ago.
Through high-pressure experiments and advanced computer simulations, researchers found that magma can absorb additional oxygen beyond the amount normally required by its chemical composition. This hidden oxygen could provide a previously unrecognized connection between Earth's deep interior, volcanic activity, and the development of an oxygen-rich atmosphere.
The research was led by Dr. Yanhao Lin and Dr. Ho-kwang Mao of the Center for High Pressure Science and Technology Advanced…
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