Scientists have discovered the fossilized remains of Precambrian cells extraordinarily preserved with the rare earth element phosphates monazite and xenotime.
geology
Posted inResearch Spotlights
An Integrated History of the Australian-Antarctic Basin
The first basin-wide compilation of seismic and geologic data shows that both margins experienced similar sedimentation patterns prior to the onset of Antarctic glaciation.
Posted inNews
The Search for the Impact That Cratered Ancient Scotland
Great Britain’s largest impact crater likely lies in the Scottish Highlands. Scientists dispute whether it’s to the west or the east.
Posted inFeatures
Resurrecting Interest in a “Dead” Planet
New research suggests that the surface of Venus is busy, but it may take new missions to our “sibling” planet to confirm this.
Posted inNews
Limiting Factor Was a Science Opportunity for a Deep-Sea Geologist
For Mariana Trench expert Patricia Fryer, an extreme explorer’s record-setting dive was a chance to retrieve some of the deepest samples ever collected.
Posted inEditors' Vox
Cascading Down the Mountain
Earthquakes in mountain ranges produce a cascade of geological disturbances and hazards, from enormous landslides to climate change.
Posted inResearch Spotlights
Paleomagnetism Indicators May Be Flawed
A new study finds that magnetism in volcanic ash tuff forms through varied processes, calling into question previously reliable signatures used to study variations in Earth’s magnetic field.
Posted inFeatures
The Mineralogical Society of America Turns 100
The society that led scientists through some of the most groundbreaking discoveries of the past century looks ahead to the next challenges with a Centennial symposium in late June.
Posted inNews
Hiroshima Bomb Created Asteroid Impact–Like Glass
The glass rained from the sky as the bomb annihilated the Japanese city.
Posted inEditors' Highlights
Crystals Connect Bubbles in Explosive Magmas
Hydrous silica-rich magmas can degas through connected bubble pathways when as little as 20% crystals are present, influencing transitions from explosive, Vulcanian-style eruptions to lava effusion.