Midocean ridges are higher than surrounding oceanic crust primarily because
A)two plates are colliding.
B)the crust is thicker and stronger.
C)transform faulting uplifts the rocks.
D)the lithosphere is thinner and hotter.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Mid-ocean ridges are higher than surrounding oceanic crust primarily because the lithosphere is thinner and hotter. As magma rises from the mantle and cools, it creates new oceanic crust, which is thinner and less dense than the surrounding oceanic crust. This thin and hot lithosphere causes the mid-ocean ridges to rise and form underwater mountain chains.

Midocean Ridges Are Higher Than Surrounding Oceanic Crust Primarily Because