Oceanic ridges are elevated compared to the surrounding ocean floor because _________.
A) of the shield volcanoes that develop due to seafloor spreading
B) the mantle is pushing up the lithosphere along the ridge
C) newly formed lithosphere is hotter and therefore less dense than the surrounding rocks
D) the older, colder lithosphere is less dense and tends to rise

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Newly formed lithosphere at oceanic ridges is hotter and less dense, causing it to be elevated compared to the surrounding cooler and denser ocean floor.

Oceanic Ridges Are Elevated Compared to the Surrounding Ocean Floor