Scientists have known that melting glaciers can change the rotation of the earth. But this study shows that in some cases, groundwater pumps have a greater impact.
A new study shows that human activity, especially pumping groundwater, causes the Earth’s axis to move about 31.5 inches (or 80 cm) in less than 20 years. The study, led by Ki-Weon Seo of Seo, a Seo National University, published a geophysical research letter that shows that using too much groundwater can not only affect the environment, but even how the Earth rotates. Between 1993 and 2010, the underground reserves were approximately 2,150 gin. Most of the water is used in agriculture and daily needs of human beings. After use, water usually flows into the ocean, slightly increasing sea level by about 0.24 inches. But even more surprising is that this transformation of water also moves eastward the Earth’s rotating rod, about 4.36 cm a year.
Scientists have known that melting glaciers can change the rotation of the earth. But this study shows that in some cases, groundwater pumps have a greater impact.
The study highlights that areas such as western North America and northwestern India are major contributors. Due to their location, these areas have a greater impact on the tilt of the earth when water is removed from the ground.
Currently, this transition is too small to change seasons or daily weather. However, experts warn that continuing to use groundwater at this rate could have serious long-term effects on Earth’s climate system. Even small changes in the Earth’s axis can affect climate patterns over thousands of years.
These findings highlight the need for better groundwater management. Urge the government and environmental groups to take action. Groundwater is often forgotten because it is invisible, but it is crucial for our survival.
Groundwater is water stored below the Earth’s surface in tiny spaces between soil and rocks. It comes from rainwater, soaks into the ground and gathers in a natural underground storage area called aquifers.
Protecting such hidden water sources may help slow down or even reverse changes in the tilt of the earth. But this will require long-term global efforts to play a role.
