Magnetic patterns develop on the seafloor as basaltic lava erupts and cools, and:
A) iron-rich minerals align with Earth's magnetic field
B) iron-rich minerals align parallel to the oceanic rift
C) silicic minerals align with Earth's magnetic field

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Iron-rich minerals in the basaltic lava become magnetized as they cool, aligning with the Earth's magnetic field at the time of their solidification. This process creates the magnetic patterns observed on the seafloor.

Magnetic Patterns Develop on the Seafloor as Basaltic Lava Erupts