This topic contains a solution. Click here to go to the answer

Author Question: Briefly explain why, according to the principle of isostasy, continental crust floats higher than ... (Read 81 times)

Cooldude101

  • Hero Member
  • *****
  • Posts: 557

Briefly explain why, according to the principle of isostasy, continental crust floats higher than oceanic
  crust. What will be an ideal response?



Question 2

How do continents grow? What material is added to them and how? What will be an ideal response?



Related Topics

Need homework help now?

Ask unlimited questions for free

Ask a Question
Marked as best answer by a Subject Expert

ryrychapman11

  • Sr. Member
  • ****
  • Posts: 334
Answer to Question 1

A mass, such as the continental crust that floats on an underlying mass, should do so at an
equilibrium level, such that it extends at least as far beneath the upper level of the underlying material
as it does above the surface of that material



Answer to Question 2

Continents grow by continental accretion. Eroded older continental crust, plutonic and volcanic rocks
from convergent plate boundaries and small terranes, fragments of seamounts, island arcs, and small
pieces of continents that were carried on oceanic plates collide with the continents and cause them to
grow.






 

Did you know?

There are over 65,000 known species of protozoa. About 10,000 species are parasitic.

Did you know?

Astigmatism is the most common vision problem. It may accompany nearsightedness or farsightedness. It is usually caused by an irregularly shaped cornea, but sometimes it is the result of an irregularly shaped lens. Either type can be corrected by eyeglasses, contact lenses, or refractive surgery.

Did you know?

Fatal fungal infections may be able to resist newer antifungal drugs. Globally, fungal infections are often fatal due to the lack of access to multiple antifungals, which may be required to be utilized in combination. Single antifungals may not be enough to stop a fungal infection from causing the death of a patient.

Did you know?

Pregnant women usually experience a heightened sense of smell beginning late in the first trimester. Some experts call this the body's way of protecting a pregnant woman from foods that are unsafe for the fetus.

Did you know?

Asthma attacks and symptoms usually get started by specific triggers (such as viruses, allergies, gases, and air particles). You should talk to your doctor about these triggers and find ways to avoid or get rid of them.

For a complete list of videos, visit our video library