What would happen to cratonic keels if they had the same chemical composition as ordinary mantle peridotites?
A)They would melt.
B)They would float.
C)They would sink.
D)Nothing would happen.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Cratonic keels would sink if they had the same chemical composition as ordinary mantle peridotites because their buoyancy, which currently helps them remain stable at the base of the continental crust, is partly due to their unique chemical composition that is less dense than the surrounding mantle. Changing their composition to that of ordinary mantle peridotites would increase their density, causing them to sink.

What Would Happen to Cratonic Keels If They Had the Same