Mid-ocean ridges are elevated above the seafloor. The elevation of the seafloor:
A) decreases away from the mid-ocean ridge because of the cooling and contraction of the rocks
B) increases away from the mid-ocean ridge because of the expansion of the rocks
C) decreases away from the mid-ocean ridge because of the expansion of the rocks
D) increases away from the mid-ocean ridge because of the cooling and contraction of the rocks

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The elevation of the seafloor decreases away from the mid-ocean ridge because as the newly formed rocks move away from the ridge, they cool and contract, leading to a decrease in volume and thus a lower elevation.

Mid-Ocean Ridges Are Elevated Above the Seafloor