Core Insights - A recent study by a team from Swansea University indicates that the East African region is experiencing a slow geological split, potentially leading to the formation of a new ocean [1][2] - The research highlights the interaction between the Earth's interior and surface, emphasizing the significance of pulsing mantle activity in the continental rifting process [1] Group 1 - The study reveals that the African continent is splitting at a rate of 5 to 16 millimeters per year, a process that may take millions of years to complete [1] - The Afar region in northeastern Ethiopia is identified as a unique geological area where three tectonic rift valleys converge, leading to active crustal movements [1] - Researchers collected over 100 volcanic rock samples from the Afar region and combined field studies with geophysical data to understand the structure and composition of the crust and underlying mantle [1] Group 2 - The ongoing separation of the tectonic plates in the "triple junction" area is a typical early step in the formation of a new ocean basin, which could eventually connect the Red Sea, Gulf of Aden, Arabian Sea, and Somali Sea [2]