Seafloor Spreading

Front

What is seafloor spreading?

Back

Seafloor spreading is the process by which new oceanic crust is formed at mid-ocean ridges as magma rises from the mantle and solidifies.

Front

Where does new crust form in the ocean?

Back

New crust is always formed at the mid-ocean ridge.

Front

What is the material that rises from the mantle to form new ocean crust?

Back

Magma.

Front

What type of tectonic boundary is associated with seafloor spreading?

Back

Divergent boundary.

Front

What happens to oceanic crust when it collides with continental crust?

Back

The oceanic plate would sink under the continental plate due to its higher density.

Front

What is the average density of oceanic crust?

Back

3.2 g/cm³.

Front

What is the average density of continental crust?

Back

2.8 g/cm³.

Front

What geological feature is created at a mid-ocean ridge?

Back

A rift zone where new oceanic crust is formed.

Front

What is the role of magma in seafloor spreading?

Back

Magma rises from the mantle to create new oceanic crust at mid-ocean ridges.

Front

What is the difference between oceanic and continental crust?

Back

Oceanic crust is denser and thinner than continental crust.