SMRTR Science & EngineeringJun 26, 2025Interesting Engineering

Canada’s 4.16-billion-year-old rocks may unlock Earth’s ancient geological secrets

SMRTR summary

Ancient rocks found in Quebec, confirmed as Earth's oldest at 4.16 billion years, offer insights into the planet's early formation and possibly the emergence of life. The Nuvvuagittuq Greenstone Belt's age was verified using two dating methods. The rocks' composition indicates they formed during Earth's crust development, likely from molten rock and rainwater interactions. The Inuit community is preserving the site while permitting controlled scientific study.

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