The Next Supercontinent: Solving the Puzzle of a Future Pangea

Scientist Ross Mitchell shows that Earth's separate continents, once together in Pangea, are again on a collision course. He invites readers to remote lands for evidence of past supercontinents and presents the case for the future supercontinent of Amasia, defined by the merging of North America and Asia. He considers flows deep in the Earth's mantle to explain its future formation and shows how this developing theory can illuminate other planetary mysteries.

Format: Hardback
Length: 304 pages
Publication date: 24 May 2023
Publisher: The University of Chicago Press

An internationally recognized scientist has revealed that Earth's separate continents, once united in Pangea, are once again on a collision course.

You may be familiar with Pangea, the ancient landmass that split apart approximately 175 million years ago, giving rise to our current continents. However, there were two other "supercontinents" before Pangea, namely Rodinia and Columbia. These predecessors of Earth provide valuable insights into the dynamic nature of land formation. While scientists continue to speculate about the shape and name of the next supercontinent, they all agree that it is inevitable.

In this captivating work, geophysicist Ross Mitchell takes readers on a journey to remote and sometimes treacherous lands to uncover evidence of past supercontinents. He delves into the phenomena that will give birth to the next supercontinent and presents the case for the future supercontinent of Amasia, which is defined by the merging of North America and Asia.

Mitchell introduces readers to plate tectonic theory through engaging fieldwork adventures and accessible scientific descriptions. He explores the deep flows within the Earth's mantle to explain the future formation of Amasia and demonstrates how this developing theory can shed light on other planetary mysteries.

He then raises an important question: how can humanity survive the next 200 million years required to witness the birth of Amasia?

Mitchell, an expert on the supercontinent cycle, offers readers a front-row seat to a slow-motion mystery and an ongoing scientific debate. Through his meticulous research and compelling storytelling, Mitchell provides a deeper understanding of Earth's geological history and the forces that shape our planet.

This book is a must-read for anyone interested in geology, Earth sciences, and the wonders of our planet. It offers a fascinating glimpse into the past and a glimpse into the future, leaving readers with a renewed appreciation for the Earth's incredible journey.

Dimension: 216 x 140 x 25 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780226824918