Traces of ancient mountains discovered in Antarctica

Scientists from the University of Wisconsin–Oshkosh and the University of Colorado have discovered traces of ancient, long-erased mountain ranges beneath the Antarctic ice sheet, reports the “Adyrna” national portal. These mountains existed hundreds of millions of years ago and had already vanished before the Ice Age began. By studying deep rock formations in the Transantarctic Mountains, researchers analyzed the structure and chemical composition of granites. As a result, they found evidence of multiple phases of mountain formation and erosion. Although these mountain ranges have completely disappeared, the rocks that once formed them preserve information about ancient landscapes. Previously, scientists believed that Antarctica had been a flat plateau before it was covered by ice. However, the new study challenges this view. Researchers now suggest that a vast mountain system, comparable to the Appalachian Mountains, once stood in the region. Such landscapes may have played a significant role in shaping Antarctica’s climate and crustal evolution. Studying their history offers deeper insights into the formation of the continent. The findings were published in the scientific journal Earth and Planetary Science Letters.