Linear, magnetic patterns associated with mid-ocean ridges are configured as ________.
A) concentric circles about a rising plume of hot mantle rocks and magma
B) reversed magnetizations along the rift valleys and normal magnetizations along the ridge
C) normal and reversed magnetized strips roughly parallel to the ridge
D) normal and reversed magnetized strips roughly perpendicular to the ridge axis

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The linear, magnetic patterns associated with mid-ocean ridges are configured as normal and reversed magnetized strips roughly parallel to the ridge. These patterns are created as magma rises and solidifies to form new ocean floor, and the minerals in the magma align with the Earth's magnetic field at the time of solidification. As the Earth's magnetic field periodically reverses, the magnetic polarity of the new ocean floor also alternates in normal and reversed magnetized strips, which are roughly parallel to the ridge axis.

Linear, Magnetic Patterns Associated with Mid-Ocean Ridges Are Configured as ________