Seafloor Spreading

Question 1

Who formed seafloor spreading theory?

Answer 1

Harry Hess

Question 2

What is Seafloor Spreading?

Answer 2

The process where new oceanic crust is continuously created at mid-oceanic ridges and then spreads outward in opposite directions, gradually pushing the existing older oceanic crust away from the ridge .

Question 3

What is a mid - ocean ridge?

Answer 3

Long and continuous underwater mountain ranges (chains) on the seafloor where oceanic crust is constantly formed.

Question 4

Evidence 1 - Seafloor Spreading (Seafloor Age)

Answer 4

Seafloor Age. It was noticed that the age of the seafloor increased with distance from mid-ocean ridges.

Question 5

Evidence 2 - Seafloor Spreading (Seafloor movement)

Answer 5

The ocean seafloor is constantly moving and spreading apart at mid-ocean ridges

Question 6

Seafloor Spreading Process

Answer 6

Magma rises from the mantle to the seafloor at mid-ocean ridges.
Magma cools and solidifies forming new oceanic crust.
New oceanic crust moves away from the mid-ocean ridge.
Older oceanic crust moves away from the mid-ocean ridge.
Subduction and recycling of older oceanic crust at subduction zones.