September 29, 2008 | 23 comments

Birth of an Ocean: The Evolution of Ethiopia's Afar Depression

Formation of an ocean is a rare event, one few scientists have ever witnessed. Yet this geophysical nativity is unfolding today in one of the hottest and most inhospitable corners of the globe. Visit the site in safety through this extraordinary photographic essay

By Eitan Haddok   

 
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LAKE OF LAVA Birth of an Ocean: The Evolution of Ethiopia's Afar Depression :: Formation of an ocean is

CLICK TO ENLARGE + Eitan Haddok

LAKE OF LAVATypically, though, blocks of basalt float like icebergs on the fiery liquid rock, which reaches 1,200 degrees C (2,190 degrees F).
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