Why does ocean floor subduct under continents?
A)The ocean floor has a lower density and therefore sinks more easily.
B)The ocean floor is made of felsic minerals and is heavier than continental material.
C)The ocean floor is made of mafic material and is therefore denser than continental material.
D)The weight of the continents is so great that they push the ocean floor material downward.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The ocean floor is made of mafic material, which is denser than continental material. This means that when the two meet, the oceanic plate subducts under the less dense continental plate.

Why Does Ocean Floor Subduct Under Continents