New findings show that underwater mountains may increase friction along subduction zones, building up stress and making larger ruptures more likely.
Earth science
Some High-Threat Volcanoes Are Severely Understudied
Scientists have little understanding of where magma is stored along the Cascade Volcanic Arc or how its volcanoes could affect population centers.
Finding Common Ground in the Field to Inform Science Policy
The Kansas Geological Survey’s annual Field Conference takes scientists, producers, legislators, and public officials around the state to spark conversation about natural resources.
Weathering of Rocks Can Release Carbon Dioxide
New research upends the notion that the weathering of rocks mainly removes CO2 from the atmosphere. Rocks can also be carbon sources, releasing as much CO2 as Earth’s volcanoes.
Guatemala Is Reclaiming Overexploited Forests
Researchers, local communities, and authorities are tackling deforestation and forest degradation at the Maya Biosphere Reserve.
Spacecraft Are Sprinkling the Stratosphere with Metal
Metals from spacecraft reentry don’t simply vaporize and vanish. Scientists found them in the stratosphere.
Fire Histories May Be Written on Grains of Sand
Tiny bits of quartz record the intensity of fires from hundreds or even thousands of years ago, potentially offering new ways to study historic fires and how heat affects soil.
Current Efforts Not Enough to Keep Warming Under 1.5°C
A canyon between current efforts and necessary action means global temperatures are on track to rise far beyond Paris Agreement goals.
A Not-So-Hoppy Future for Beer Drinkers?
New research examining the impact of climate change on hops production has brewed up a storm.
