Long-lost **tectonic plate remnants** have been identified deep within the **Earth's mantle**, situated beneath continental plates distant from tectonic boundaries.
Evidence suggests the presence of these hidden plates, notably one beneath the **western Pacific**, without nearby subduction events.
This surprising discovery was made possible through **high-resolution modeling** utilizing various earthquake wave types to explore Earth's interior.
Researchers are puzzled by the nature and origins of these anomalies, indicating their **widespread presence** in the mantle, likely dating back to the planet's formation.
The team aims to enhance their models to better understand the **material properties** of these structures affecting wave speeds in the mantle.
Read more about this groundbreaking discovery at Newsweek.