The main mechanism for melting at spreading ridges is_______ .

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Decompression melting occurs when mantle rocks rise due to reduced pressure during the process of plate separation at spreading ridges. This results in the formation of basaltic magma, which can then be extruded onto the seafloor. Surfacial melting of sedimentary rock (A) is not a significant mechanism at spreading ridges. Subduction-produced andesitic magmas (B) are not associated with spreading ridges but with convergent plate boundaries. Large-scale melting of rhyolitic core rock (D) is not a common process at spreading ridges.

The Main Mechanism for Melting at Spreading Ridges Is_______