Why is Density important to plate tectonics?

Answer 1

It plays a number of roles. First, the tectonic plates essentially float on the asthenosphere because they are less dense. Second, since oceanic crust is denser than continental crust, it can subduct into the mantle while continental crust cannot. Plate tectonics is driven in part by mantle convection, which results from variations in density due to temperature differences.

Answer 2

Density is important in plate tectonics because it influences the movement of tectonic plates. Plates with higher density tend to sink beneath plates with lower density in a process known as subduction. This movement of plates contributes to the formation of features like oceanic trenches, volcanic arcs, and mountain ranges.