Scientists have solved the mystery of a unique “superstructure” at the bottom of the Pacific Ocean

Analyzing the chemical composition of samples taken in the area over the past decade, Conrad and his colleagues concluded that the plateau originally formed about 120 million years ago, undergoing changes as it drifted over hot spots in the Earth’s mantle and formed underwater island chains.

Many other “superstructures” of the mid-ocean plate may be discovered in the future.