Question

Density is a key component in the behavior of Earth materials and is especially important in understanding important aspects of the plate tectonics model. Describe three different ways that density and/or density differences play a role in plate tectonics.

Answer 1

Answer:

Density is one of the most factors that play a key role in plate tectonic activities. Some of the ways in which density is important in the field of plate tectonics are as follows-

• The convergent plate boundaries are responsible for the creation of a subduction zone, where the high-density lithospheric plate subducts below the less dense one. It is because the heavier plate is comprised of heavy minerals thereby forming heavier rocks as a result of which its density increases. Due to these differences in density, there occurs a subduction zone.

• The divergent plate boundary forms where two plates move away from one another. This type of plate motion is responsible for the eruption of magma on the seafloor. As the plates diverge, the lithosphere becomes eventually thin, and with more progressive spreading, the magma comes out to the seafloor. This is because the hot magma is less dense, and forms convection cells as they rise upward. This is how the density helps in the upwelling of magma at the mid-oceanic ridge in a divergent plate boundary.

• When there collide two plates of equal densities, then it gives rise to the formation of huge mountains, because neither of them is heavy to get sink. So it uplifts the crust, forming a sandwich-type pattern.

Answer 2

Answer:

Role  of Density on  plate tectonics are described below

1) density help to predict the floating of the plate, lighter density plate will float over the dense plate

2) continental crust with less density cannot sink under the oceanic crust with more density

Explanation:

Role  of Density on  plate tectonics are described below

1) density help to predict the floating of the plate, lighter density plate will float over the dense plate

2) continental crust with less density cannot sink under the oceanic crust with more density

3) subduction occur when high-density oceanic crust sink under the continental crust

4) continental crusts collide and uplift due to the low density at continent convergent boundaries