Seafloor Spreading

Front

What is the lithosphere?

Back

The lithosphere includes the crust and upper mantle and is rigid.

Front

Who is credited with the theory of seafloor spreading?

Back

Harry Hess is credited with the theory of seafloor spreading.

Front

What happens to the age of rocks as you move away from the mid-ocean ridge?

Back

The rocks are older the further they are from the mid-ocean ridge.

Front

Who worked with Marie Tharp to map the Mid-Atlantic Ridge?

Back

Bruce Hezeen worked with Marie Tharp to map the Mid-Atlantic Ridge.

Front

What is another name for basalt formed at mid-ocean ridges?

Back

Pillow rock is another name for basalt formed at mid-ocean ridges.

Front

What is the asthenosphere?

Back

The asthenosphere is the semi-fluid layer beneath the lithosphere that allows tectonic plates to move.

Front

What is the mid-ocean ridge?

Back

The mid-ocean ridge is an underwater mountain range formed by plate tectonics.

Front

What is seafloor spreading?

Back

Seafloor spreading is the process by which new oceanic crust is formed at mid-ocean ridges and older crust moves away.

Front

What role do tectonic plates play in seafloor spreading?

Back

Tectonic plates move apart at mid-ocean ridges, allowing magma to rise and create new crust.

Front

What evidence supports the theory of seafloor spreading?

Back

Evidence includes the age of rocks, magnetic stripes on the ocean floor, and the distribution of fossils.