On either side of a mid-ocean ridge,oceanic lithosphere slowly _________
A) rises because it becomes thicker away from the ridge.
B) rises because it becomes buoyant.
C) sinks into the asthenosphere because it cools and thickens,increasing in density.
D) sinks into the asthenosphere because convection pulls it downward.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

As the oceanic lithosphere moves away from the mid-ocean ridge, it cools and thickens, which increases its density. This increased density causes it to sink into the asthenosphere.

On Either Side of a Mid-Ocean Ridge,oceanic Lithosphere Slowly _________