is there an explanation for sliding rocks in the death valley dried up lake? and if not do u have a hypotheis on how they do? this is making ne stressed trying to find an answer but this is very interesting?
No one knows.
Please read the various theories in this site. Also be sure to read the NASA report that's linked to the site.
http://geology.com/articles/racetrack-playa-sliding-rocks.shtml
ok thxs and what wood be a good hypotheis?
Aliens move them in the middle of the night?
Just kidding.
That site has several good hypotheses. They all seem valid; but which one do you think is the most realistic?
Yes, there is an explanation for the sliding rocks phenomenon in Death Valley's dried up lake known as the Racetrack Playa. The rocks in this area appear to move across the surface on their own, leaving long trails behind them.
Scientists have conducted extensive research to understand this phenomenon. Here's an explanation of how they came to understand it:
1. Observation: Scientists first observed the sliding rocks and documented their movements.
2. Hypothesis: Initially, there were various hypotheses about what caused the rocks to move. Some suggested that strong winds were responsible, while others proposed a combination of wind and ice.
3. Experimentation: To test these hypotheses, scientists installed GPS trackers on some of the rocks and placed them on the playa.
4. Waiting and recording: Researchers monitored the rocks for several years, patiently waiting for the right conditions for movement to occur.
5. Confirmation: In 2013, a rare combination of specific conditions occurred, resulting in the movement of the rocks. It was found that thin sheets of ice had formed under the rocks, acting as a lubricant, allowing the rocks to be moved by even light gusts of wind. This phenomenon is now known as the "ice sailing" hypothesis.
So, to summarize, the rocks in the Racetrack Playa move due to a combination of strong winds and thin sheets of ice that form under the rocks during specific weather conditions. This explanation was reached through careful observation, hypothesis testing, and patience by scientists.
Remember, science is a process of discovery, and sometimes it takes time to find definitive explanations for natural phenomena. It's great that you find this topic interesting, and with continued scientific research, we can uncover even more about the mysteries of our world.