Seafloor Spreading Review

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 seafloor spreading occur?

Back

Seafloor spreading occurs at mid-ocean ridges, which are underwater mountain ranges.

Front

What type of rock is primarily formed during seafloor spreading?

Back

Basalt is the type of 'new' rock formed during seafloor spreading.

Front

What happens to the oceanic crust during seafloor spreading?

Back

The oceanic crust is created and pushed away from the mid-ocean ridge as new crust forms.

Front

What is the relationship between seafloor spreading and plate tectonics?

Back

Seafloor spreading is a key process in plate tectonics, as it explains how oceanic plates move and interact.

Front

What is a mid-ocean ridge?

Back

A mid-ocean ridge is an underwater mountain range where seafloor spreading occurs.

Front

What is the significance of the recycling of oceanic crust?

Back

The recycling of oceanic crust helps maintain the balance of Earth's crust and contributes to geological processes.

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 during seafloor spreading.

Front

What is a trench in relation to seafloor spreading?

Back

A trench is a deep underwater valley that forms where one tectonic plate is being subducted beneath another.

Front

How does seafloor spreading affect oceanic and continental crust?

Back

Seafloor spreading creates new oceanic crust while continental crust remains relatively stable.