A force that is important in driving plate tectonics is
A)slab pull.
B)ridge push.
C)upwelling mantle, such as in hot spots.
D)All of these.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

All three forces of slab pull, ridge push, and upwelling mantle are important in driving plate tectonics. Slab pull occurs as subducting oceanic lithosphere sinks into the mantle, pulling the rest of the plate along with it. Ridge push occurs when new oceanic lithosphere forms at a spreading center and pushes the adjacent plates away from the ridge axis. Upwelling mantle, such as in hot spots, can cause a plume of magma to rise and create new crust, which can move the plates above it. Together, these forces contribute to plate movement and the overall process of plate tectonics.

A Force That Is Important in Driving Plate Tectonics Is