Chapter 4: Problem 6

How does crust form along a mid-ocean ridge?

Short Answer

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Crust forms along a mid-ocean ridge through a process called seafloor spreading, where two oceanic tectonic plates diverge, allowing magma from the Earth's mantle to rise through the gap. The magma cools upon contact with cold water, solidifies, and forms new oceanic crust. The continuous supply of magma and movement of tectonic plates contribute to the growth and spreading of crust along the ridge.

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Understanding Mid-Ocean Ridges

Mid-ocean ridges are underwater mountain ranges formed by the interaction of tectonic plates. These ridges are the result of a process called seafloor spreading, where new oceanic crust is formed through volcanic activity and slowly pushed away from the ridge in opposite directions. The seafloor spreading is the primary factor that contributes to the formation of crust along a mid-ocean ridge.

Seafloor Spreading

Seafloor spreading occurs when two tectonic plates, specifically oceanic plates, move away from each other. As the plates separate, magma from the Earth's mantle rises through the gap and cools as it comes into contact with the cold water, forming new oceanic crust. The newly formed crust then pushes the existing crust away from the ridge, contributing to the continuous growth and movement of the Earth's tectonic plates.

The Role of Magma in Crust Formation

Magma plays a crucial role in the formation of crust along a mid-ocean ridge. As tectonic plates diverge, the pressure underneath the ridge decreases, allowing the mantle's material to partially melt and form magma. The magma rises through the cracks and fissures created by the moving plates, eventually reaching the seafloor where it solidifies and forms new oceanic crust. The continuous supply of magma to the ridge ensures that the crust keeps growing and spreading away from the ridge.

Tectonic Plate Interactions in Mid-Ocean Ridges

The interactions between tectonic plates at mid-ocean ridges are essential for the formation of new crust. As the oceanic plates diverge, they create a gap that allows the mantle material to rise and form magma. The process results in the formation of new crust along the ridge and the movement of the existing crust away from it. Over time, these interactions lead to the growth and evolution of the Earth's crust. By understanding these concepts and the interactions between tectonic plates, seafloor spreading, and the role of magma, students will be able to fully understand how crust forms along a mid-ocean ridge.

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How does crust form along a mid-ocean ridge?

Short Answer

Step by step solution

Understanding Mid-Ocean Ridges

Seafloor Spreading

The Role of Magma in Crust Formation

Tectonic Plate Interactions in Mid-Ocean Ridges

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