India?s geologic history

India’s geologic history

News: A recent study has revealed that India hosts remarkably well-preserved volcanic and sedimentary rocks as old as 3.5 billion years, and has similar geologic history to parts of South Africa and Australia.

Background:
 These rocks are found in the Daitari greenstone belt within the Singhbhum Craton in east India.
 Cratons are pieces of ancient continents that formed several billions of years ago. Their study provides a window into how processes within and on the surface of Earth operated in the past.

Key Findings and its importance:
 The presence of silicic rocks rich in silica indicated explosive sub-marine to sub-aerial volcanic settings. Furthermore, the researchers determined that sub-marine turbidity current deposits, comprising sedimentary rocks, were formed after the volcanic vent drowned.
 By studying these ancient greenstones, researchers gain insights into various volcanic processes and uncover well-preserved minor sedimentary rocks that formed under sub-marine conditions.
 The well-preserved greenstones serve as time capsules, providing clues about habitable environments on Earth during its early stages and aiding in the comprehension of the planet’s evolution.
 It provides evidence for various theories of plate tectonics.