pt.euronews.com
Tectonic Plate Fissure May Explain Lisbon Earthquakes
A newly discovered fissure in the tectonic plate off the coast of Portugal, forming for at least five million years, is causing delamination and may explain the 1755 and 1969 Lisbon earthquakes; scientists used ocean-floor seismometers and computational models to make the discovery.
- What methods were used to discover this previously unknown geological process and its implications for seismic activity?
- The delamination process, involving a horizontal fracture and the sinking of the lower plate section to 200 kilometers, explains the 1969 Lisbon earthquake. This process was previously undetectable due to the upper plate's stable position. The discovery relied on ocean-floor seismometers and computational modeling.
- How can the insights gained from this discovery be leveraged to improve earthquake prediction and mitigation strategies in the region?
- The slow, ongoing delamination process, coupled with the unique geological structure (no known seismic faults), highlights the need for improved seismic monitoring. The installation of new submarine communication cables could provide an opportunity for enhanced earthquake prediction and prevention in the region.
- What is the newly discovered geological feature, and how does it explain the occurrence of significant earthquakes in the Lisbon area?
- A newly discovered fissure, 200 kilometers off the Cape of St. Vincent, may explain the 1755 Lisbon earthquake. This fissure, forming for at least five million years, is causing delamination of the tectonic plate, leading to deeper-than-normal plate sections and seismic activity.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The article frames the discovery of the geological fissure as a major breakthrough in understanding Lisbon's seismic history. The headline and introduction emphasize the 'solution' to a long-standing mystery, potentially overshadowing the ongoing complexity of earthquake prediction and the ongoing research needed. While this is a significant finding, the presentation could be less definitive.
Language Bias
The language used is largely objective and neutral, using technical terms appropriately. However, phrases such as 'solution to a long-standing mystery' and 'major breakthrough' could be considered slightly loaded, presenting the findings with more certainty than is perhaps warranted. More cautious language might be beneficial, for example, describing the discovery as a significant contribution to our understanding rather than a definitive solution.
Bias by Omission
The article focuses on the newly discovered geological fissure and its potential role in causing earthquakes in Lisbon, but it omits discussion of other potential contributing factors or alternative explanations for seismic activity in the region. While acknowledging space constraints is reasonable, mentioning the limitations of this explanation would strengthen the analysis. For instance, are there other geological features that might also play a role? The article also doesn't discuss the societal impact of past earthquakes and the preparedness measures taken.
False Dichotomy
The article presents the discovery of the fissure as a definitive explanation for past seismic events in Lisbon. While it provides strong evidence linking the fissure to seismic activity, it might oversimplify the complex interplay of geological factors that contribute to earthquakes. It does not consider other possibilities, creating a false dichotomy between this single explanation and all others.
Gender Bias
The article focuses primarily on the research and findings, with gender being largely irrelevant to the subject matter. The only named researcher is male; however, without knowing the full research team's composition, it's difficult to definitively assess gender bias. More information is needed to make a complete assessment.
Sustainable Development Goals
The article focuses on geological discoveries related to earthquakes and does not directly address poverty.