Subduction occurs when______ rocks are forced beneath rocks.
A) continental; continental
B) oceanic; continental
C) oceanic; continental or oceanic
D) continental; oceanic or continental

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Subduction can only occur when one plate is denser than another. In general, oceanic plates are denser than continental plates. Thus, subduction usually occurs when an oceanic plate collides with either another oceanic plate or a continental plate. Therefore, option B and D are not correct as they include only one type of plate. Option A is incorrect because continental plates are not dense enough to subduct.

Subduction Occurs When______ Rocks Are Forced Beneath Rocks