Introduction to the Deccan Traps
The Deccan Traps refer to an expansive area of volcanic rock formations located in west-central India. This unique geological structure was formed by a series of volcanic eruptions between 60 and 68 million years ago, during the Late Cretaceous and Early Paleogene periods.
Formation and Composition
The Deccan Traps were created by the eruption of massive amounts of basaltic lava, likely triggered by the Indian tectonic plate's movement over a mantle hotspot. The lava flows covered a vast region, particularly in the states of Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, Karnataka, and Telangana. These layers are primarily composed of basalt, a dark volcanic rock formed from rapidly cooled lava.
Environmental Impact
The volcanic activity that created the Deccan Traps released significant amounts of gases, including sulfur dioxide and carbon dioxide. These emissions likely caused dramatic climate changes and may have contributed to the mass extinction event 66 million years ago, which coincided with the end of the dinosaurs.
Significance of the Deccan Traps
Studying the Deccan Traps provides insights into large-scale volcanic activity and its effects on Earth's climate and ecosystems. Ongoing research aims to understand the environmental consequences of these eruptions, particularly their role in the mass extinction at the Cretaceous-Paleogene boundary. The Deccan Traps remain a vital key to unlocking Earth's geological and ecological mysteries.