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Seafloor spreading is the extension of oceanic lithosphere that occurs where two oceanic plates are moving apart. While the explanation for its causes remain somewhat of a mystery, it goes something like this: oceanic plates at the mid-ocean ridges are either being pushed or pulled apart, probably a combination of both. Rock from the mantle rises toward the thinned crust and undergoes decompression melting, filling the void left by the separating plates. The lava then turns into the rock basalt and becomes an addition to the ocean floor. The ocean floor grows roughly equally on either side of the ridge.
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A typical rate of seafloor spreading in the Atlantic Ocean?
The typical rate of seafloor spreading in the Atlantic Ocean is around 2.5 centimeters per year. This rate can vary along different sections of the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, with some areas spreading faster than others due to tectonic activity.
How seismic studies support seafloor spreading?
Seismic studies show evidence of mid-ocean ridges where new oceanic crust is forming, supporting the theory of seafloor spreading. By analyzing seismic waves, scientists can map the structure of the ocean floor and identify areas of tectonic activity where plates are moving apart. Additionally, seismic data reveals the presence of magnetic striping on the seafloor, further supporting the idea of seafloor spreading.
What ocean floor features are associated with areas where oceanic crust is broken down?
Ocean floor features associated with areas where oceanic crust is broken down include mid-ocean ridges, deep-sea trenches, and volcanic island arcs. These features are formed through processes such as seafloor spreading, subduction, and volcanic activity along tectonic plate boundaries.
Algae can survive on the seafloor only in?
Algae can survive on the seafloor only in shallow waters where there is enough sunlight for photosynthesis to occur. Deep sea areas lack sufficient light for algae to survive.
If the ocean floor is continuously spreading apart is the surface of the earth growing?
Yes, the spreading of the ocean floor through seafloor spreading is indicative of plate tectonics, where new crust is formed at mid-ocean ridges. This process does contribute to the growth of the Earth's surface area over time.
A typical rate of seafloor spreading in the Atlantic Ocean?
The typical rate of seafloor spreading in the Atlantic Ocean is around 2.5 centimeters per year. This rate can vary along different sections of the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, with some areas spreading faster than others due to tectonic activity.
At a divergent boundary land is gained or lost?
At a divergent boundary, land is gained. Ocean ridges are prominent at divergent plate boundaries. Ocean ridges are areas of seafloor spreading. Seafloor spreading occurs as upwelling magma rises to the surface. This upwelling magma hardens and forms new seafloor.
How seismic studies support seafloor spreading?
Seismic studies show evidence of mid-ocean ridges where new oceanic crust is forming, supporting the theory of seafloor spreading. By analyzing seismic waves, scientists can map the structure of the ocean floor and identify areas of tectonic activity where plates are moving apart. Additionally, seismic data reveals the presence of magnetic striping on the seafloor, further supporting the idea of seafloor spreading.
Characterized by basaltic volcanism and seafloor spreading?
This description is often associated with mid-ocean ridges where new oceanic crust is formed through seafloor spreading, creating basaltic volcanism. These ridges are areas of tectonic activity where magma rises to the surface, solidifying into basaltic rocks.
How do algae survive on the seafloor?
shallow areas
Can Algae can survive on the seafloor?
shallow areas.
What ocean-floor feature is associated with areas where oceanic crust is broken down?
The mid ocean ridge is the area of the ocean floor that is associated with the breaking down of the oceanic crust. This area is known for seafloor spreading.
What ocean floor features are associated with areas where oceanic crust is broken down?
Ocean floor features associated with areas where oceanic crust is broken down include mid-ocean ridges, deep-sea trenches, and volcanic island arcs. These features are formed through processes such as seafloor spreading, subduction, and volcanic activity along tectonic plate boundaries.
Is the reflection on the moon the continents?
No, they are physical features of the moon itself. The dark areas are geologically younger, and the light areas are older and at a higher elevation.
Algae can survive on the seafloor only in?
Algae can survive on the seafloor only in shallow waters where there is enough sunlight for photosynthesis to occur. Deep sea areas lack sufficient light for algae to survive.
If the ocean floor is continuously spreading apart is the surface of the earth growing?
Yes, the spreading of the ocean floor through seafloor spreading is indicative of plate tectonics, where new crust is formed at mid-ocean ridges. This process does contribute to the growth of the Earth's surface area over time.
Is the Pacific Ocean expanding?
The Pacific Ocean is not expanding in the traditional sense. However, tectonic plates beneath the ocean are constantly moving, which can lead to the ocean floor spreading in some areas due to seafloor spreading along mid-ocean ridges.
