Scientists unravel mystery of Earth’s first oxygen surge (and it’s volcanic)
Earth's first surge of oxygen occurred due to massive volcanic eruptions, releasing gases that transformed the planet's atmosphere billions of years ago. These eruptions spewed out gases like sulfur dioxide, which reacted with sunlight and water vapor to form aerosols that gradually increased the oxygen levels in the atmosphere.
This pivotal event laid the groundwork for life as we know it today. Scientists believe similar volcanic activity on other planets could yield valuable insights into the evolution of atmospheres beyond Earth, potentially shedding light on the conditions necessary for life to emerge elsewhere in the universe.
