Question

You have two samples of ocean crust that are the same age and have the same magnetite orientation. In sample A, the width of the band of rock with this distinct magnetite orientation is 2 meter and in sample B it is 1 m. Which sample likely came from the East Pacific Rise and which one likely came from the Mid-Atlantic Ridge?

Answer 1

Answer:

It is evident from the distinct magnetite orientation that these two rocks came from the mid ocean ridges.

If the rocks were obtained at the same time, sample A which is the rock with wider band of distinct magnetite orientation (2m) must be from the Easy Pacific Rise and the rock sample B with the shorter band of distinct magnetite orientation (1m) is from the Mid-Atlantic Ridge.

Explanation:

The Mid-Atlantic Ridge is a slow spreading center (leading to broader bands of magnetite orientation). It spreads 2-5 centimeters (0.8-2 inches) every year and forms an ocean trench about the size of the Grand Canyon.

The East Pacific Rise, on the other hand, is a fast spreading center (wide band of distinct magnetite orientation). It spreads about 6-16 centimeters (3-6 inches) every year. There is not an ocean trench at the East Pacific Rise, because the seafloor spreading is too rapid for one to develop!

Hope this helps!!!