Schematic for redox chemistry driven by mechanical processes in the deep subsurface on rocky planets (IMAGE)
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Schematic for redox chemistry driven by mechanical processes in the deep subsurface on rocky planets. (A) The formation of habitable environments in the subsurface as silicate crusts are reworked by various geological processes such as crust deformation, plate tectonics and mantle plumes. (B) Microbes utilize the energy and electrons for cell growth and division in fracture systems where redox gradients exist. (C) Mineral-water reactions convert mechanical energy to chemical energy and drive iron redox cycling in the deep biosphere.
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Image credit: Dr. Wu Xiao
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