spillover theory

Ancient Lake Spillover Theory Gains New Evidence in Grand Canyon Formation Debate

A new study published in Science supports the theory that an ancient lake overflow in the Bidahochi basin triggered the Colorado River to carve the Grand Canyon. Researchers analyzed zircon crystals in sandstone samples from both the Grand Canyon and the basin, finding chemical signatures that suggest a connection between the regions before the canyon fully formed. The theory proposes the lake reached a tipping point, spilling over elevated terrain like the Kaibab Arch and forcing water to carve a new route.