Alternating positive and negative polarity magnetic anomalies in the crust form a stripe-like pattern parallel to _____.
A) lines of longitude
B) the equator
C) continental margins
D) aseismic ridges
E) mid-oceanic ridges

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The alternating positive and negative polarity magnetic anomalies in the crust form a stripe-like pattern parallel to mid-oceanic ridges. This is because new magma comes up at these ridges and solidifies with a magnetic orientation that matches the polarity of the Earth's magnetic field at that time. As the magnetic field reverses, new stripes are formed in opposite polarity.

Alternating Positive and Negative Polarity Magnetic Anomalies in the Crust