In a surprise discovery, scientists have confirmed the existence of a continent that has been hiding in plain sight for centuries. The continent, known as Zealandia, is mostly submerged underwater, but it is still the world's 8th largest continent by area.
Zealandia was first proposed as a continent in the 1600s, but it was not until recently that scientists had the technology to confirm its existence. In 2017, a team of scientists from New Zealand and Australia used seismic data and gravity measurements to map the continent's hidden outlines.
Zealandia is located in the southwestern Pacific Ocean, and it is made up of a number of islands, including New Zealand, New Caledonia, and Norfolk Island. The continent is estimated to be about 1.9 million square miles in size, but only about 5% of its surface is above sea level.
The discovery of Zealandia has important implications for our understanding of the Earth's history. Zealandia was once part of the supercontinent Gondwana, which broke apart about 180 million years ago. The continent's submergence is thought to be due to a combination of factors, including tectonic uplift and sea level rise.
The discovery of Zealandia also has potential economic and environmental implications. The continent is thought to contain a number of natural resources, including oil, gas, and minerals. It is also home to a variety of unique plants and animals.
The full extent of Zealandia's resources and biodiversity is still unknown, but the discovery of this "new" continent is a reminder of the vastness and complexity of our planet.
Here are some additional details about Zealandia:
It is about 70% larger than Greenland, which is the world's largest island.
It is thought to have emerged from the ocean about 500 million years ago.
It is home to a number of endemic species, meaning that they are found nowhere else on Earth.
The climate of Zealandia is temperate, with warm summers and cool winters.
The continent is thought to have a significant impact on the global climate, as it helps to regulate the flow of ocean currents.
The discovery of Zealandia is a significant scientific achievement, and it is sure to have a lasting impact on our understanding of the Earth.
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