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Xenon isotopes reveal a geomagnetic prelude to Earth’s oxygenation

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Ancient xenon isotopes reveal that a temporary weakening of Earth's magnetic field enhanced hydrogen escape to prime the atmosphere for oxygenation, before its recovery locked in the Great Oxidation Event. More than simple shields, magnetic fields may act as an active filter for atmospheric evolution, with consequences for planetary habitability and the divergent histories of Earth and Mars.

Source: National Science Review

DOI: 10.1093/nsr/nwag172

Author: Yong Wei

Institutions: Chinese Academy of Sciences, Institute of Geology and Geophysics, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences

Language: English

Topic: Paleontology and Stratigraphy of Fossils

Subfield: Paleontology

Field: Earth and Planetary Sciences

Domain: Physical Sciences

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,000

Funder: National Natural Science Foundation of China