News Earth

How ancient oceans of magma may have boosted Earth’s oxygen levels

Chemical reactions involving iron could have increased oxygen-rich compounds in the mantle

Earth illustration

Iron-containing compounds in the magma oceans of early Earth (illustrated) may have helped create the planet’s oxygen-rich, life-sustaining atmosphere.

Simone Marchi, NASA

By Maria Temming

- More than 2 years ago

We may have ancient magma oceans to thank for Earth’s breathable air.

Shortly after the planet’s formation about 4.5