Scientists from the University of California at Santa Barbara said that Africa is splitting along several lines that are expanding by about 6,35 millimeters per year. They were supported by scientists from the Geological Society of London, reports “Mir 24” with reference to Live Science.
According to American researchers, the cause of the fault was the heat that comes to the surface from the upper mantle of the planet and lifts the earth's crust. Because of this, scientists believe, volcanic activity on the continent increased and Kilimanjaro arose.
The Geological Society of London, in turn, said that this process has already led to the formation of a network of valleys, stretching for about 3,5 thousand kilometers in length.
According to geologists' forecasts, when the eastern part of the mainland separates, a sea may form at the fault site. At the same time, a number of researchers believe that Africa can remain intact if the forces that split it are very slow and cannot separate the plates.