This July 16, 2014, photo, shows an aerial view of cruise ships docked at the Old San Juan pier in Puerto Rico.
San Juan:
The US government has pledged nearly $350,000 to help scientists in Puerto Rico explore the deepest part of the Atlantic Ocean, a trench just north of the island.
Resident Commissioner Pedro Pierluisi says the money also will be used to explore a trench south of the US territory.
He said on Thursday that scientists will focus on studying biogeochemical processes in both trenches and on developing investigative procedures with remote-controlled submarines. Scientists believe both trenches are capable of causing a tsunami in the earthquake-prone Caribbean region.
Professors at the University of Puerto Rico's Mayaguez campus will oversee the investigation.
The National Ocean and Atmospheric Administration is providing the federal funds.
Resident Commissioner Pedro Pierluisi says the money also will be used to explore a trench south of the US territory.
He said on Thursday that scientists will focus on studying biogeochemical processes in both trenches and on developing investigative procedures with remote-controlled submarines. Scientists believe both trenches are capable of causing a tsunami in the earthquake-prone Caribbean region.
Professors at the University of Puerto Rico's Mayaguez campus will oversee the investigation.
The National Ocean and Atmospheric Administration is providing the federal funds.
