# Whole-Earth Decompression Dynamics

**Authors:** J. Marvin Herndon  
**arXiv:** [astro-ph/0507001](https://arxiv.org/abs/astro-ph/0507001)  
**Date:** 2005-06-30  
**Summary page:** https://www.summarizepaper.com/en/arxiv-id/astro-ph--0507001v1/

## Key points

- Whole-Earth Decompression Dynamics integrates plate tectonics theory and Earth expansion theory
- Earth's formation originated from within a Jupiter-like protoplanet
- Initial phase of decompression resulted in major primary decompression cracks in the crust
- Primary cracks persist as basalt feeders for the global mid-oceanic ridge system
- Secondary decompression cracks form near continental margins, identified as oceanic trenches
- Secondary cracks filled with basalt extruded from mid-oceanic ridges, mimicking subduction processes
- Evidence supporting plate tectonics aligns with Whole-Earth Decompression Dynamics
- No need for mantle convection/circulation or basalt recycling to explain phenomena
- Allows for a broader timescale for Earth's decompression process compared to plate tectonics theory
- Comprehensive explanation for various geological phenomena observed on Earth

## Summary

The principles of Whole-Earth Decompression Dynamics, as disclosed by J. Marvin Herndon, offer a groundbreaking approach to understanding the dynamics of our planet. This theory integrates and unifies two seemingly divergent dominant theories of continental displacement: plate tectonics theory and Earth expansion theory. According to Whole-Earth Decompression Dynamics, the process of Earth formation originated from within a Jupiter-like protoplanet. As this protoplanet formed, it experienced the loss of gases and ices, leading to subsequent rebounding. The initial phase of whole-Earth decompression resulted in the emergence of major primary decompression cracks in the rigid crust. These cracks persist as basalt feeders for the global mid-oceanic ridge system. As Earth continues to decompress over time, secondary decompression cracks form near continental margins, which are presently identified as oceanic trenches. These secondary cracks become filled with basalt extruded from the mid-oceanic ridges. This basalt traverses the ocean floor through gravitational creep and eventually plunges into secondary decompression cracks, mimicking subduction processes observed in plate tectonics. Importantly, much of the evidence supporting plate tectonics also aligns with Whole-Earth Decompression Dynamics. However, this new theory does not require mantle convection/circulation or basalt recycling to explain these phenomena. Furthermore, one significant advantage of Whole-Earth Decompression Dynamics is that it allows for a broader timescale for Earth's decompression process. Unlike plate tectonics theory constrained by the maximum age of current ocean floors (around 200 million years), this new perspective offers flexibility in understanding long-term geological processes. In summary, J. Marvin Herndon's Whole-Earth Decompression Dynamics presents an innovative framework that combines elements from both plate tectonics theory and Earth expansion theory. By considering Earth's formation within a Jupiter-like protoplanet and subsequent decompression, this theory provides a comprehensive explanation for various geological phenomena observed on our planet.