Growth of continental crust and lithosphere subduction in the Hadean revealed by geochemistry and geodynamics

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Paper Summary

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Did Continents Form REALLY Early? Ancient Rocks and Earth Simulations Say Maybe!

By analyzing melt inclusions in 3.27 billion-year-old rocks from South Africa and using sophisticated computer simulations of early Earth, researchers propose that a large amount of continental crust may have formed during the Hadean eon (>4 billion years ago). Their models suggest up to 80% of the present-day continental crust could have been extracted by the late Hadean. These findings suggest a much earlier and potentially more rapid continental growth than previously thought.

Possible Conflicts of Interest

None identified.

Identified Weaknesses

Model Dependence

The study relies heavily on interpretations of complex geochemical and geodynamic models, which always have inherent uncertainties and simplifications. While they've tried to address these, the conclusions are still dependent on model accuracy.

Limited Geographic Sampling

The sample size, while large for melt inclusions, is still limited to a single location (Barberton Greenstone Belt). Confirming these findings with samples from other ancient terranes would greatly strengthen the conclusions.

2D Model Simplification

As acknowledged by the authors, 2D geodynamic models have limitations, particularly in accurately representing the complex 3D processes of mantle convection, melt generation, and crustal recycling.

Rating Explanation

This study presents compelling geochemical and geodynamic evidence supporting early continental crust formation. The methodology is rigorous and addresses potential contamination issues in their samples, using innovative laser ablation techniques on melt inclusions. While model-dependent and geographically limited, the results are intriguing and open up interesting avenues for future research. The combination of geochemical data and geodynamic modelling makes a strong case.

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