Sea-Floor Spreading

Front

What is sea-floor spreading?

Back

Sea-floor 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 sea-floor spreading occur?

Back

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

Front

What is the role of magma in sea-floor spreading?

Back

Magma rises through cracks in the ocean floor, cools, and solidifies to form new crust.

Front

What happens to the old oceanic crust during sea-floor spreading?

Back

The old oceanic crust is pushed away from the mid-ocean ridge as new crust is formed.

Front

What geological activity is associated with mid-ocean ridges?

Back

Mid-ocean ridges are associated with volcanic and earthquake activity.

Front

What is the significance of the ocean floor in sea-floor spreading?

Back

The ocean floor is continuously renewed through the process of sea-floor spreading, which adds new material.

Front

What is subduction?

Back

Subduction is the process where one tectonic plate moves under another and sinks into the mantle.

Front

How does sea-floor spreading support the theory of plate tectonics?

Back

Sea-floor spreading provides evidence for the movement of tectonic plates, as new crust is created and old crust is recycled.

Front

What is a mid-ocean ridge?

Back

A mid-ocean ridge is an underwater mountain range formed by plate tectonics, where sea-floor spreading occurs.

Front

What is the relationship between sea-floor spreading and earthquakes?

Back

Sea-floor spreading can cause earthquakes due to the movement of tectonic plates at mid-ocean ridges.