Seafloor Spreading and Ocean Features

Mr. Bus introduces Lab 5 on seafloor spreading, focusing on the mid-ocean ridge in the Atlantic Ocean. He explains how magma rises to form new rock at the ridge, causing the ocean floor to spread. The process is slow, akin to fingernail growth. As magma solidifies, it locks in the magnetic signature pointing to the current North Pole, which has shifted over time. The lab involves using magnetic field sensors to study these patterns. Students will map the seafloor and interpret data, using tools like LabQuest and a ruler.

What is the primary feature of the ocean floor discussed in the introduction?

• Trenches

• Mid-ocean ridge

• Abyssal plain

• Continental shelf

In which ocean is the mid-ocean ridge example located?

• Atlantic Ocean

• Arctic Ocean

• Pacific Ocean

• Indian Ocean

What happens to magma as it rises at the mid-ocean ridge?

• It remains liquid

• It evaporates

• It forms new rock

• It cools into water

How does the seafloor spreading process compare to a common human experience?

• As fast as a car

• As slow as a snail

• As slow as fingernail growth

• As fast as a plane

What tool is used to study the magnetic patterns in rocks?

• Thermometer

• Seismograph

• Barometer

• Magnetic field sensor

What happens to the iron in the rock as it solidifies?

• It melts

• It points to the current North Pole

• It evaporates

• It turns into gold

What is a key feature of the magnetic patterns found in rocks?

• They show magnetic reversals

• They are always the same

• They are random

• They are invisible

What is one of the objectives of the seafloor spreading experiment?

• To catch fish

• To find treasure

• To map the seafloor

• To measure temperature

Which material is NOT needed for the seafloor spreading experiment?

• Telescope

• Ruler

• Magnetic field sensor

• LabQuest

What does the recap emphasize about the seafloor spreading process?

• It occurs at the continental shelf

• It involves the formation of mountains

• It occurs at the mid-ocean ridge

• It is unrelated to magma