Earth's mysterious 'hum' points to the sound of waves crashing across the world
Scientists have identified that the Earth's persistent low-frequency 'hum' is caused by ocean swells in the Southern Ocean. These seismic signals travel through the planet's crust and are amplified by fluid interactions.
Why it matters
Understanding these seismic signals helps researchers distinguish between natural planetary vibrations and potential geological events like landslides or earthquakes.
Because Earth is mostly ocean, scientists believe the constant motion of the seas generates a persistent planetary hum. ( ABC Midwest and Wheatbelt: Chris Lewis )
Scientists first recorded Earth's low-frequency "hum" in the 1960s, but its origin was a mystery.
Now it is believed the noise is caused by ocean swells generated in the Southern Ocean, the sound of which echoes across the planet.
The University of Melbourne's Earthquake Research Group hopes to conduct further investigations into the sound.
Link copied Share Share article Amid the constant noise of traffic and suburbia, Earth is quietly humming.
The planet's ultra-low-frequency vibration was first detected in the 1960s, but its origin has puzzled scientists for decades.
Seismology Research Centre chief scientist Adam Pascale said the scientific community believed the hum was caused by the pressure of ocean swells generated in the Southern Ocean.
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