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Microbially assisted recording of the Earth’s magnetic field in sediment

Author

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  • Xiangyu Zhao

    (Ludwig-Maximilians University)

  • Ramon Egli

    (Central Institute of Meteorology and Geodynamics (ZAMG), Methods and Models)

  • Stuart A. Gilder

    (Ludwig-Maximilians University)

  • Sebastian Müller

    (Ludwig-Maximilians University)

Abstract

Sediments continuously record variations of the Earth’s magnetic field and thus provide an important archive for studying the geodynamo. The recording process occurs as magnetic grains partially align with the geomagnetic field during and after sediment deposition, generating a depositional remanent magnetization (DRM) or post-DRM (PDRM). (P)DRM acquisition mechanisms have been investigated for over 50 years, yet many aspects remain unclear. A key issue concerns the controversial role of bioturbation, that is, the mechanical disturbance of sediment by benthic organisms, during PDRM acquisition. A recent theory on bioturbation-driven PDRM appears to solve many inconsistencies between laboratory experiments and palaeomagnetic records, yet it lacks experimental proof. Here we fill this gap by documenting the important role of bioturbation-induced rotational diffusion for (P)DRM acquisition, including the control exerted on the recorded inclination and intensity, as determined by the equilibrium between aligning and perturbing torques acting on magnetic particles.

Suggested Citation

  • Xiangyu Zhao & Ramon Egli & Stuart A. Gilder & Sebastian Müller, 2016. "Microbially assisted recording of the Earth’s magnetic field in sediment," Nature Communications, Nature, vol. 7(1), pages 1-7, April.
    • Handle: RePEc:nat:natcom:v:7:y:2016:i:1:d:10.1038_ncomms10673
    DOI: 10.1038/ncomms10673
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