The time needed for a typical atom in an oceanic plate to complete a plate-tectonic cycle is ____________.
A)about a hundred thousand years
B)about a million years
C)about 10 million years
D)in excess of 250 million years
E)
Material does not recycle via tectonic processes

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The time needed for a typical atom in an oceanic plate to complete a plate-tectonic cycle is in excess of 250 million years. This long duration reflects the slow movement of tectonic plates and the extensive processes involved in the cycle, including subduction, mantle convection, and eventual re-emergence at mid-ocean ridges.

The Time Needed for a Typical Atom in an Oceanic