'A secret beneath Mt Everest': Is a river making it grow taller or there's another story?
Produced by: BT Desk Designed by: Manoj Kumar
Everest’s Growth Mystery
At 8,849 meters and still growing, Everest’s increasing height isn’t fully understood—could it be the Arun River or something more beneath the surface?
River's Role?
Some scientists suggest the Arun River’s erosion might have unlocked Everest’s potential to rise, but is this the full story, or just one piece of the puzzle?
Ancient Shift
Around 90,000 years ago, the Arun River changed course, eroding rock that once held Everest down. But could the mountain’s growth really be due to an old river?
Tectonic Collision
While the Indian and Eurasian plates collide to form Everest, something else might be at play. Is it just tectonics, or are unseen forces shaping its size?
Tibetan Blob Enigma
The Tibetan Plateau, a massive viscous mass pushing south, plays a role in Everest’s rise. But is this mysterious mass the key, or part of a bigger phenomenon?
Earthquakes and Elevation
Frequent earthquakes in the region make Everest grow, but the exact contribution remains unclear. Could the quakes be masking another driving force?
Support from Below
Everest stands taller because of the strength beneath it. But what is hidden under the mountain? Is there something deeper affecting its legendary height?
Rivers and Rubble
Rivers carry debris from avalanches, reducing Everest’s height, yet lightening the load could also make it grow. Is this natural balancing act the real secret?
Everest’s Unique Growth
Everest keeps rising while neighboring peaks remain steady. Is it because of frequent earthquakes, or is there an undiscovered factor keeping it ahead?
The Unknown Factor
Scientists debate whether erosion, tectonics, or something else entirely explains Everest's growth. Is there an unseen force pushing the world's tallest mountain even higher?