Data Analysis: Density & Tectonic Plates

​Data Analysis: Density & Tectonic Plates

By Lacy Barnett

As you read. write down these ideas into your journal:
----The forces that move the plates are found where?
----What is the difference between oceanic crust and continental crust?
---- How does density affect an objects tendency to sink or float?

Multiple Choice

Explain why both oceanic crust and continental crust float on the mantle. Use the data from the table as evidence to support your explanation.

• Both crusts sink into the mantle due to their high density.
• Oceanic crust is denser than continental crust and sinks.
• Continental crust is heavier than oceanic crust and floats.
• Both oceanic and continental crust float on the mantle because they are less dense than the mantle.

Multiple Choice

Why are the continents at a higher elevation than the ocean floor? Use the data from the table to support your claim.

• The continents are at a higher elevation than the ocean floor due to the lower density of the continental crust compared to the oceanic crust.
• The ocean floor is deeper due to water weight compressing it.
• Continents are pushed up by tectonic activity beneath them.
• The ocean floor is made of lighter materials than the continents.

Multiple Choice

In some places on Earth, tectonic plates are moving toward each other. What do you think might happen if oceanic crust were to collide with continental crust?

• The denser oceanic crust will sink beneath the continental crust.

• The continental crust sinks beneath the oceanic crust because it is heavier.

• Both plates melt completely, forming a new ocean basin.

• The plates stop moving and lock permanently in place.

Multiple Choice

What do you think might happen if continental crust were to collide with other continental crust?

• Earthquakes are prevented.
• Oceans are formed.
• Volcanoes are created.
• Mountain ranges are formed.

Discuss the last question and answer with your table. Why do you think this would happen?