Daily Current Affairs : 8-February-2024
The Geological Institute of Israel has made an interesting discovery: a brand new underwater canyon close to Cyprus. Named the Eratosthenes Canyon after a close-by underwater mountain, this canyon affords essential insights into the geological records of the Mediterranean Sea.
The Age and Size of the Canyon
The Eratosthenes Canyon dates back to the Messinian Event, which took place approximately 5.5 million years ago. This was a significant period in Earth’s history known as the Messinian salinity crisis. Here are some key features of the canyon:
- Width: Approximately 10 kilometers
- Depth: About 500 meters
This canyon was formed during a time when the Mediterranean Sea’s water levels were lower than usual, leading to unique environmental conditions.
Formation of the Canyon
The formation of the Eratosthenes Canyon is linked to a decrease in water levels in the Mediterranean Sea, which prompted several geological processes:
- Gravity Currents: These currents were created as denser saltwater moved, reshaping the seabed.
- Subsidence: The weight of sediment and changes in water levels led to the sinking of the ocean floor, creating the canyon.
Environmental Conditions During the Messinian Event
The Messinian Event was marked by intense changes within the Mediterranean Sea. This period is characterized by:
- Decreased Water Levels: The sea experienced partial or almost complete drying out.
- Increased Salinity: As water evaporated, the remaining water became saltier, affecting marine life.
Important Points:
Sure! Here are the important bullet points based on the essay:
- Discovery: A new underwater canyon named Eratosthenes Canyon was found near Cyprus by the Geological Institute of Israel.
- Historical Context: The canyon dates back to the Messinian Event, occurring approximately 5.5 million years ago during the Messinian salinity crisis.
- Canyon Dimensions:
- Width: Approximately 10 kilometers
- Depth: About 500 meters
- Formation Factors:
- Decreased water levels in the Mediterranean Sea led to unique environmental conditions.
- Gravity Currents: Denser saltwater movement reshaped the seabed.
- Subsidence: Weight of sediment and water level changes caused the ocean floor to sink.
- Environmental Changes:
- Decreased Water Levels: The Mediterranean Sea experienced partial or nearly complete drying out.
- Increased Salinity: Evaporation increased the salt concentration, impacting marine life.
- Significance: The discovery provides insights into the geological history and environmental conditions of the Mediterranean region.
Why In News
The Geological Institute of Israel has discovered a previously unknown underwater canyon near Cyprus, named Eratosthenes after the nearby underwater mountain, which adds a fascinating layer to our understanding of the region’s geological history.
MCQs about Discovery of the Eratosthenes Canyon
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What is the name of the newly discovered underwater canyon near Cyprus?
A. Messinian Canyon
B. Mediterranean Canyon
C. Eratosthenes Canyon
D. Salinity Canyon
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Approximately how long ago did the Messinian Event occur?
A. 2 million years ago
B. 3.5 million years ago
C. 5.5 million years ago
D. 7 million years ago
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Which of the following processes contributed to the formation of the Eratosthenes Canyon?
A. Volcanic Eruptions
B. Glacial Activity
C. Gravity Currents
D. Tectonic Plate Movement
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What characterized the environmental conditions during the Messinian Event?
A. High water levels and low salinity
B. Complete marine biodiversity
C. Decreased water levels and increased salinity
D. Constant temperatures
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