The formation of new enigmatic layer – E prime layer – at the outermost part of Earth's core is a result of "surface water penetrating deep into the planet.
Tectonic plates carrying surface water have transported it deep into the Earth over billions of years.
Subducted water reacts chemically with core materials under high pressure.
This reaction leads to the formation of a hydrogen-rich, silicon-depleted layer at the outer core.
Silica crystals generated by this process ascend and blend into the mantle, impacting the overall composition.
These modifications in the liquid metallic layer could potentially result in reduced density and altered seismic characteristics.