Author Question: Why does the lithosphere thicken as it moves away from a mid-ocean ridge? What will be an ideal ... (Read 26 times)

KimWrice

  • Hero Member
  • *****
  • Posts: 579
Why does the lithosphere thicken as it moves away from a mid-ocean ridge?
 
  What will be an ideal response?

Question 2

Discuss how oceanic crust forms. What process generates the necessary magma? Also, be sure to discuss ophiolite sequences and discuss how the formation of each layer contributes to the formation of the crust.
 
  What will be an ideal response?



vish98

  • Sr. Member
  • ****
  • Posts: 326
Answer to Question 1

Answer: Cooling of the asthenosphere will add rigid material to the lithosphere.

Answer to Question 2

Answer: Magma is generated through decompression melting. This magma rises to the surface to fill in the gaps between the diverging tectonic plates. Fractures created by tension provide pathways for magma to rise and spill out on to the ocean floor, creating the pillow basalts. The fractures the basalt moved through become sheeted dikes as the magma cools. Meanwhile, the magma that remained in the magma chamber forms the gabbro bodies.



Related Topics

Need homework help now?

Ask unlimited questions for free

Ask a Question
 

Did you know?

The top five reasons that children stay home from school are as follows: colds, stomach flu (gastroenteritis), ear infection (otitis media), pink eye (conjunctivitis), and sore throat.

Did you know?

Eating carrots will improve your eyesight. Carrots are high in vitamin A (retinol), which is essential for good vision. It can also be found in milk, cheese, egg yolks, and liver.

Did you know?

The most dangerous mercury compound, dimethyl mercury, is so toxic that even a few microliters spilled on the skin can cause death. Mercury has been shown to accumulate in higher amounts in the following types of fish than other types: swordfish, shark, mackerel, tilefish, crab, and tuna.

Did you know?

In 1844, Charles Goodyear obtained the first patent for a rubber condom.

Did you know?

Since 1988, the CDC has reported a 99% reduction in bacterial meningitis caused by Haemophilus influenzae, due to the introduction of the vaccine against it.

For a complete list of videos, visit our video library