Which of the following statements best describes the relationship between pressure and melting point in the Earth's Interior?
A)Higher pressure leads to lower melting points.
B)Melting points of rocks are not dependent on changes in pressure.
C)Higher melting points are determined by higher pressures.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The higher the pressure, the higher the melting point. This is because increased pressure can cause molecules and atoms to pack closer together, making it more difficult for the solid to melt into a liquid. As pressure increases, the melting point also increases until it reaches a critical point where the substance may become a supercritical fluid. This is why the temperatures and pressures in the lower mantle and core of the Earth are high enough to maintain a solid state despite their high temperatures.

Which of the Following Statements Best Describes the Relationship Between