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The mineral composition of the oceanic crust is similar to the composition of what rock?
Wiki User
∙ 13y ago
It is most similar to the composition of the rock basalt.
Wiki User
∙ 13y ago
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Why is the main reason that oceanic crust is heavier than continental crust?
Oceanic crust is mafic in composition and continental crust is felsic in composition. Mafic minerals generally have a higher density than felsic minerals and therefore, the oceanic crust is heavier.
The average composition of the oceanic crust is thought to approximate that of?
basalt
The average composition of the oceanic crust is thought to approximate that of what?
granite
Why does continental crust stay on top of the oceanic crust?
The continental crust is less dense than the oceanic crust, so the oceanic crust sinks. The earth has layers based on the density of the mineral assemblages. Solid iron core, liquid outer core, heterogenic graded mantle mineral assemblages.... the continental crust and oceanic crust are a part of the near surface of the grading with even the atmosphere grading outwards. The Continental crust is made up of less dense mineral assemblages primarily silicon rich granites and associated sediments. the Oceanic crust is made up of heavier elements like magnesium and Iron in the form of basalts and gabbros.
How are oceanic crust and continental crust similar?
They both behave as brittle solids and are both formed of a mixture of igneous, metamorphic and sedimentary rocks.
Why is the main reason that oceanic crust is heavier than continental crust?
Oceanic crust is mafic in composition and continental crust is felsic in composition. Mafic minerals generally have a higher density than felsic minerals and therefore, the oceanic crust is heavier.
What is the composition of continental crust?
The composition of the continental crust is granitic overall, high in silicon and aluminum, when compared to the oceanic crust.
The average composition of the oceanic crust is thought to approximate that of?
basalt
The average composition of the oceanic crust is thought to approximate that of what?
granite
What is the average composition of the oceanic crust is thought to approximate?
granite
What is the main difference between continental plates and oceanic plates?
Oceanic crust is created on Mid ocean ridges and of basaltic composition. Oceanic crust is on average comparatively young as it is subducted into the mantle in subduction zones. Oceanic crust is denser and thinner than average continental crust.The composition and age distribution of continental crust is much more complicated than that of oceanic crust. It is on average less dense and much thicker than oceanic crust and its composition is roughly that of a tonalite (something similar to a granite but with less alkali feldspar). Apart from igneous rocks and metamorphic rocks, the sedimentary rocks add a lot to the variety of lithologies found on the continents (carbonates, evaporites, sandstones, shales, conglomerates, etc.).As opposed to oceanic crust, continental crust is not subducted into the mantle in large quantities but has been gradually accumulating over geologic timescales.
How oceanic crust different?
Oceanic and Contintental crust are different in composition as well as size and density Continental- granitic/50-100km thick Oceanic- basaltic/ up to 10km thick Oceanic crust is more dense making it subduct under continental crust
Is quartz a common rock forming mineral?
Yes, especially in the continental crust, but not as common in the oceanic crust.
Why does continental crust stay on top of the oceanic crust?
The continental crust is less dense than the oceanic crust, so the oceanic crust sinks. The earth has layers based on the density of the mineral assemblages. Solid iron core, liquid outer core, heterogenic graded mantle mineral assemblages.... the continental crust and oceanic crust are a part of the near surface of the grading with even the atmosphere grading outwards. The Continental crust is made up of less dense mineral assemblages primarily silicon rich granites and associated sediments. the Oceanic crust is made up of heavier elements like magnesium and Iron in the form of basalts and gabbros.
WHAT is the the composition of earth's crust?
Many different minerals are found in oceanic crust. Feldspar, basalt, pyroxene, and other molten rock materials make up the composition of the ocean's crust.
What is the primary composition of the Earth's oceanic crust?
Oceanic crustal rock is basaltic in composition. if u havent read about it or hear about it ont put it on ur paper trust me
What composition is earths crust?
oceanic crust is made of basalt while continental crust is made of silica rich rocks like granite.
