Pacific Plate

Researchers solve mystery of Hawaii's twin track volcanoes

The study used computer simulations to determine that the twin tracks that caused the volcanoes are due to a shift in the Pacific Plate's motion three million years ago.

Lead researcher Tim Jones said the discovery would help scientists better reconstruct Earth's history.

"We're now recognising that we see these all over the globe," he said.

"Mantle plumes have played a role in mass extinctions, the creation of diamonds and the breaking up of continents."