Nickel and Urea Levels key to Earth’s Oxygen Rise, New Research Reveals
[CITY, STATE] – A groundbreaking study has revealed a critical link between the levels of nickel and urea in Earth’s early environment and the dramatic increase in atmospheric oxygen approximately 2.4 billion years ago – an event known as the Great Oxidation Event. Researchers found that high concentrations of both substances initially inhibited the growth of cyanobacteria, the microbes responsible for producing oxygen through photosynthesis, preventing a lasting rise in oxygen levels.
The research, led by Dr.Thilina Ratnayake, demonstrates a complex relationship between nickel and urea, impacting both their formation and biological function. “When both are at lower levels, this condition allows cyanobacteria to grow rapidly,” Dr. Ratnayake explained.
As nickel and urea levels declined, cyanobacterial populations flourished, steadily releasing oxygen and fundamentally altering Earth’s atmospheric composition. This new model offers a refined understanding of how the planet transitioned to an oxygen-rich atmosphere.
The findings also have significant implications for astrobiology, informing the search for life on other planets.”If we clearly understand how atmospheric oxygen levels can increase, we can also more easily recognize signs of life on other planets,” Dr. Ratnayake stated.
The study confirms that urea can occur naturally and that the concentration of nickel and urea combinations can either support or hinder microbial growth. This provides new insight into the evolution of Earth’s early ecosystems and highlights how seemingly minor chemical shifts can have profound effects on the advancement of life. The gradual reduction in nickel and stabilization of urea ultimately enabled the widespread growth of cyanobacteria, creating the oxygen-rich atmosphere present today.
Source: Scitech Daily
