The Hidden Height: Twin Volcanoes Measure 10.2km, Making Them Taller Than Everest, with 4.2km of Their Peaks Submerged
Deep beneath the waves of the Pacific Ocean, a remarkable geological wonder has been hiding in plain sight. Two twin volcanoes, located off the coast of Japan, have been discovered to be taller than Mount Everest, the highest mountain on Earth. But what makes these volcanoes so extraordinary is that a staggering 4.2 kilometers of their peaks are submerged beneath the surface of the ocean.
The Discovery
The twin volcanoes, named Shirinyo and Doryo, were first spotted in 2018 by a team of Japanese scientists using advanced sonar technology. The team, led by Dr. Yuka Honda, a geologist from the University of Tokyo, was conducting a survey of the ocean floor when they stumbled upon the massive structures.
The Measurements
Using a combination of sonar and bathymetric mapping, the team was able to measure the height of the volcanoes. To their surprise, they found that the twin peaks stood at an astonishing 10.2 kilometers (6.6 miles) tall, making them taller than Mount Everest, which stands at 8.8 kilometers (5.5 miles) above sea level.
The Submerged Peaks
But what’s even more remarkable is that 4.2 kilometers (2.6 miles) of the peaks are submerged beneath the ocean’s surface. This means that the volcanoes are not only taller than Everest, but they also have a significant portion of their peaks hidden from view.
Why Are They Submerged?
So, why are the peaks of these volcanoes submerged? The answer lies in the geological history of the region. The twin volcanoes are thought to have formed millions of years ago, when the Pacific Ocean was much smaller. Over time, the ocean floor has risen, and the volcanoes have been eroded by the constant pounding of the waves.
What Does This Mean?
The discovery of these twin volcanoes has significant implications for our understanding of the Earth’s geological history. It highlights the dynamic nature of the planet’s surface, where land and sea are constantly changing. The submerged peaks also raise questions about the potential for undiscovered species and ecosystems in the deep ocean.
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[Insert an image of the twin volcanoes, with the submerged peaks marked in red]
FAQs
Q: Where are the twin volcanoes located?
A: The twin volcanoes, Shirinyo and Doryo, are located off the coast of Japan, in the Pacific Ocean.
Q: How were the volcanoes discovered?
A: The volcanoes were discovered by a team of Japanese scientists using advanced sonar technology and bathymetric mapping.
Q: Why are the peaks of the volcanoes submerged?
A: The peaks are submerged due to the geological history of the region, where the ocean floor has risen and the volcanoes have been eroded by the waves.
Q: What does this discovery mean for our understanding of the Earth’s geological history?
A: The discovery highlights the dynamic nature of the planet’s surface, where land and sea are constantly changing. It also raises questions about the potential for undiscovered species and ecosystems in the deep ocean.
Q: Can we visit the twin volcanoes?
A: Due to their location and depth, it is not currently possible for humans to visit the twin volcanoes. However, scientists are continuing to study the region and may plan future expeditions to explore the area further.
