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Data Processing Methods for 3D Seismic Imaging of Subsurface Volcanoes: Applications to the Tarim Flood Basalt

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Published on: August 7, 2017

Tunnel Formation in Basalt Glass.

Martin R Fisk¹, Radu Popa², David Wacey³

¹1 College of Earth, Ocean, and Atmospheric Sciences, Oregon State University , Corvallis, Oregon, USA.

|September 26, 2018

Summary

Microscopic tunnels in basalt glass form due to proton flux from seawater, potentially explaining early life evidence. This proton gradient model suggests cells facilitated these ancient geological processes.

Keywords:

Basalt glass alteration Early life Habitable zone Natural pH gradient Prokaryote Proton motive force Rocky planet.

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Area of Science:

Geochemistry
Astrobiology
Origin of Life Studies

Background:

Basaltic rocks are common on Earth and other planetary bodies.
Seawater-rock interactions are significant geological processes.
Proton gradients are fundamental to energy generation in biological systems.

Purpose of the Study:

To propose a model for microscopic tunnel formation in basalt glass.
To investigate the role of proton flux in basalt alteration.
To explore the potential link between geological processes and early life.

Main Methods:

Modeling proton flux and ion exchange in basalt glass.
Analyzing the structure of tunnels in modern and ancient basalts.
Comparing terrestrial processes to potential extraterrestrial scenarios.

Main Results:

Microscopic tunnels form in basalt glass driven by natural proton flux from seawater.
Protons replace cations in the glass, creating tunnels and facilitating cation efflux.
This process generates energy from proton and ion gradients, potentially supporting early cellular life.

Conclusions:

The proposed proton gradient model offers a mechanism for tunnel formation preceding biological redox catalysis.
Similarities between modern and Archean basaltic tunnels may represent early physical evidence of life.
Proton gradients in silicate-water systems are relevant to astrobiology and the search for life beyond Earth.