New research reveals Antarctic deep-water expansion ended the last Ice Age. Scientists traced ancient circulation

changes using deep-sea sediment core samples. Their findings reshape understanding of carbon release during global

deglaciation. The study highlights crucial links between ocean circulation and climate change.

Tracing Ancient Ocean Movements

Researchers examined nine sediment cores surrounding the Antarctic continental margin. These cores preserved chemical

fingerprints recording past deep-water behaviour. They analysed neodymium isotopes indicating origins of bottom-water

masses. Results uncovered major shifts during Earth’s transition from glacial conditions.

Team Behind The Breakthrough

An international team led the study across multiple collaborating institutions. Experts in geochemistry and

palaeoclimate jointly interpreted the isotope data. Their coordinated approach strengthened evidence for

circulation-driven carbon release. The findings emerged through long-term Southern Ocean sediment research programmes.

Revealing Carbon-Shifting Waters

Antarctic Bottom Water expanded rapidly during two distinct phases. This expansion replaced old stagnant deep-water rich

in carbon. The process mixed deep reservoirs with upper ocean layers globally. Massive carbon dioxide escaped into the

atmosphere during these transitions.

Implications For Earth’s Future

The circulation shift significantly influenced Earth’s natural warming trajectory. It explains atmospheric carbon

increases during the Ice Age’s final stages. The mechanism reshapes climate models predicting ocean-atmosphere carbon

exchanges. Understanding past patterns helps anticipate responses to modern warming.

Mechanisms Driving Ocean Change

Warming altered sea-ice formation controlling deep-water production dynamics. Freshwater changes influenced density

gradients driving ocean overturning strength. These interactions triggered widespread circulation restructuring across

Southern Ocean regions. The process ultimately accelerated global climate recovery following glacial decline.