Magnetic iron-bearing minerals that crystallize out of magma ____.
A) align themselves with the Earth's magnetic field and only record direction
B) record the strength of the Earth's magnetic fields
C) become easily altered and lose their magnetic properties
D) record both direction and strength of the Earth's magnetic field at time of crystallization
E) none of these

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Magnetic iron-bearing minerals that crystallize out of magma record both direction and strength of the Earth's magnetic field at the time of their crystallization. This is because as they solidify, their magnetic dipoles align with the ambient magnetic field, effectively locking in a record of its orientation and strength. This process is known as paleomagnetism and has been instrumental in helping scientists reconstruct the Earth's past magnetic field.

Magnetic Iron-Bearing Minerals That Crystallize Out of Magma ____