Recent research has presented convincing proof that the inner core of our planet is experiencing a decrease in its rotational speed.
The shift occurred in 2010, and the cause and duration of the change remain uncertain. The inner core, comparable in size to the moon and with a temperature similar to the sun’s surface, plays a crucial role in preserving the planet’s magnetic field, which protects us from harmful space radiation that can cause cancer. Scientists have been receiving some unusual data about the behavior of the inner core in the past decade, indicating that its rotation is becoming a bit erratic.
According to the data, in 2010, the inner core exhibited a reversal in its rotational direction in relation to the Earth’s surface. This phenomenon is known as backtracking. Currently, the inner core is rotating at a slower pace compared to its previous speed. There is no need to worry about a catastrophic event similar to what was depicted in the movie “The Core.” The only potential impact on our daily lives would be an extremely slight increase in the length of our days due to a gradual slowing of the Earth’s rotation. However, this change would be so insignificant that it would likely go unnoticed.
Backtracking has not occurred in the past four decades, making the possibility of a massive object undergoing such a drastic change a subject of debate rather than a scientific certainty. Nevertheless, a recent study presents a fresh perspective on the data that may assist in resolving the dispute. The research team behind the study claims to have strong evidence that the inner core is moving more slowly and changing direction.
Usually, scientists measure the time differences between seismic waves and their travel time to the core and back. However, the structure of the inner core is highly uncertain. The team’s new method eliminates the need for guesswork by focusing solely on the accuracy of the seismograms’ alignment.
Nevertheless, while it is possible to assert that the inner core is experiencing a reversal and deceleration, determining the precise rate of rotation or the underlying cause of this phenomenon remains challenging. The behavior of the inner core is probably influenced by factors such as drag or friction with the outer core or gravitational forces from Earth’s mantle.
