What Is Dark Oxygen?
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24 July 2024
Scientists have discovered "dark oxygen" produced in the deep ocean by metallic nodules, reports BBC
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Unlike photosynthesis, dark oxygen production occurs at depths of 5km, without sunlight
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The nodules split seawater into hydrogen and oxygen, functioning like natural batteries
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Lead researcher Prof Andrew Sweetman first noticed significant oxygen production in darkness in 2013
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The study, published in Nature Geoscience, highlights potential disruptions from deep-sea mining activities
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Metal nodules containing lithium, cobalt, and copper are targeted by mining companies, reports BBC News
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Dark oxygen may support unknown marine life, raising environmental concerns over mining plans
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NOAA warns seabed mining could destroy life and habitats in the mined areas
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Over 800 marine scientists urge caution, highlighting the risks to deep-sea ecosystems
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The discovery suggests a non-biological, light-independent oxygen production process, possibly even on other planets
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