Of the following, which can be used to determine the absolute motion of plates?
A) Volcanic hot spots (such as the Hawaiian Island chain).
B) Magnetic reversals chronicled in the oceanic crust.
C) Sediment thickness along continental margins.
D) The position of Australia relative to the other continents.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Volcanic hot spots are fixed points in the mantle, and as tectonic plates move over them, they create a chain of volcanoes. This allows scientists to track the direction and speed of plate movement, providing a measure of absolute motion.

Of the Following, Which Can Be Used to Determine the Absolute