The Hydroplate Theory and Large Molybdenum Deposits: A Fresh Perspective

Introduction

Molybdenum is an essential element with various applications in modern industry, particularly in the production of high-strength steel alloys, chemical catalysts, and electronic components. Understanding the geological processes responsible for its formation and concentration into economically viable deposits is critical for resource exploration and development. This paper explores the potential implications of the Hydroplate Theory (HPH) on large molybdenum deposits found in Australia and New Zealand.

The HPH proposes a radical departure from prevailing geological theories by suggesting that many geological features, including mountain ranges, sedimentary basins, and mineral deposits, are the result of catastrophic events triggered by a global flood. While this hypothesis is met with skepticism within the scientific community, it offers a fresh perspective on the processes shaping Earth’s geology.

Background: The Hydroplate Theory

The HPH posits that vast chambers filled with water existed in the Earth’s crust before being suddenly released due to a catastrophic event, leading to rapid continental drift and subsequent formation of geological features. One key tenet of this theory is that mineral deposits found worldwide can be attributed to these cataclysmic events.

Large Molybdenum Deposits: The Conventional Perspective

According to conventional geology, molybdenum deposits are typically formed through hydrothermal processes associated with the formation of igneous rocks. As magma cools and solidifies, it releases hot fluids enriched in various elements, including molybdenum. These fluids then circulate through the surrounding rock, depositing minerals like molybdenite (the primary ore mineral for molybdenum) within fractures, veins, and replacement bodies.

In the context of Australia and New Zealand’s geology, large molybdenum deposits are often associated with porphyry copper systems. These systems are formed by the intrusion of magma into pre-existing rock formations, creating extensive hydrothermal alteration zones that host mineralization, including significant concentrations of molybdenum.

The Hydroplate Theory and Large Molybdenum Deposits

The HPH presents an alternative explanation for the formation of large molybdenum deposits. According to this theory, the catastrophic release of water from Earth’s crust triggered rapid continental drift, leading to massive geological upheaval. As continents shifted and collided, immense pressure was exerted on rock formations beneath the Earth’s surface.

This intense pressure facilitated the mobilization of molybdenum-bearing fluids within the subsurface, which were then rapidly transported along fracture networks created by the violent movement of tectonic plates. The sudden release of these fluids, combined with the deposition of sediments during and after the flood event, led to the formation of large concentrations of molybdenum deposits.

Implications for Australia and New Zealand

If the HPH’s explanation for the formation of large molybdenum deposits holds merit, it could have significant implications for mineral exploration and development in Australia and New Zealand. For instance, understanding the potential link between catastrophic events and mineralization may help guide exploration efforts towards regions where similar conditions are thought to have occurred.

Furthermore, if HPH is correct about the rapid continental drift driven by the release of subterranean water, then areas that were once part of the same continent but subsequently separated due to tectonic movements could harbor comparable molybdenum deposits. This insight could potentially expand the search space for new discoveries and shed light on previously unexplained geological features.

Addressing Criticisms and Challenges

The HPH faces several criticisms, primarily stemming from its departure from conventional geological theories that are widely accepted within the scientific community. Critics argue that the mechanisms proposed by HPH lack empirical evidence and rigorous quantitative models to support their claims.

However, proponents of the HPH maintain that mounting evidence supports the theory’s central tenets, such as the existence of large underground water bodies with geothermal features similar to Yellowstone National Park found across the globe. Moreover, celestial objects within our solar system, like Europa (Jupiter’s moon) and Enceladus (Saturn’s moon), offer analogies for the concept of subterranean water reservoirs on Earth.

To address these criticisms and challenges, further interdisciplinary research is needed to test the validity of HPH’s claims. Developing comprehensive quantitative models incorporating insights from geology, geophysics, fluid dynamics, thermodynamics, and other relevant disciplines can help assess the plausibility and consistency of HPH’s proposed mechanisms.

Conclusion: Embracing Open Scientific Inquiry

Regardless of whether the HPH ultimately gains widespread acceptance or is refuted by further evidence, engaging with alternative hypotheses like this theory has the potential to drive scientific progress. By critically examining the HPH and its implications for large molybdenum deposits in Australia and New Zealand, we can contribute to a deeper understanding of geological processes shaping Earth’s crust.

The pursuit of knowledge relies on embracing open scientific inquiry, questioning long-held assumptions, and remaining receptive to perspectives that challenge prevailing paradigms. By fostering interdisciplinary collaboration, subjecting theories to empirical testing, and maintaining a commitment to rigorous scientific discourse, we can collectively advance our comprehension of Earth’s geological history and the formation of valuable mineral resources like molybdenum.

References

Brown, W. (2008). In the Beginning: Compelling Evidence for Creation and the Flood. Center for Scientific Creation.

Mackenzie, D., & Davies, G. R. (1987). Molybdenum resources of Australia. Bureau of Mineral Resources, Geology and Geophysics.

Singer, D. A., & Menzie, W. D. (2010). Porphyry copper deposits: A global perspective on distribution, geology, and exploration methods. Society of Economic Geologists.

Keywords: Hydroplate Theory, Molybdenum Deposits, Australia, New Zealand, Geological Processes