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The oceanic crust is generally about 5 to 10 kilometers thick, which is significantly thinner than the continental crust, which can range from 30 to 70 kilometers in thickness. In terms of area, the oceanic crust covers about 60% of the Earth's surface, making it larger in extent compared to the continental crust. However, in terms of volume, the continental crust is much larger due to its greater thickness. Overall, while the oceanic crust is extensive in area, it is thinner compared to the continental crust.
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Earth does not get bigger as new oceanic crust forms?
Just as new oceanic crust forms at mid-ocean ridges, old oceanic crust is destroyed at subduction zones.
Oceanic crust is lighter than the continental crust?
No, the oceanic crust is denser. That's why the land areas "float" so much higher than the ocean bedrock.
Is ocean crust or landform crust yonger?
Ocean crust is younger than landform crust. Oceanic crust is constantly being created at mid-ocean ridges through volcanic activity, making it much younger in comparison to the older landform crust found on continents.
Is earth's continental crust thicker or thinner than the oceanic crust?
On average, it is much thicker than oceanic crust.
Why does the continental crust go father down into the mantle than the oceanic crust?
Continental crust, on average, is much thicker than oceanic crust. Because of the principles of isostacy and buoyancy, the continental crust will protrude more deeply into the asthenosphere than oceanic crust.
What is the difference between continential and oceanic crust?
Continental crust is thicker, less dense, and typically older than oceanic crust. Oceanic crust is thinner, more dense, and younger as it is constantly being formed at mid-ocean ridges and being recycled at subduction zones.
Which type of crust has higher density between oceanic or continental?
Oceanic crust has a higher density compared to continental crust. This is primarily due to its composition; oceanic crust is predominantly made up of basalt, which is denser than the granitic rocks that make up much of continental crust. As a result, oceanic crust typically ranges from about 7 to 10 kilometers in thickness, while continental crust can be much thicker but is less dense overall.
How much does the oceanic crust weigh?
The average density of oceanic crust is about 2.9 g/cm^3. Given that oceanic crust is typically around 7 km thick, the weight of a cubic meter of oceanic crust would be approximately 29,000 kg (or 29 metric tons).
What happens when a plate of oceanic crust collides with a plate of the continental crust and why does this happen?
When oceanic crust collides with continental crust, the denser oceanic crust is forced beneath the continental crust in a process called subduction. This happens because oceanic crust is heavier, colder, and more dense than continental crust, making it susceptible to being subducted under the lighter continental crust. This collision can result in the formation of mountain ranges, volcanic arcs, and deep ocean trenches.
What is oceanic-oceanic subduction?
Oceanic crust sinking under a plate with continental crust
Where are the youngest portion of Earth's crust found?
The youngest parts of the Earth's crust are found in the oceanic crust. This crust is continuously being created at the mid-oceanic ridges.
Is the oceanic crust felsic or mafic?
Oceanic crust is mafic.
