Which statement about the properties of Earth's crust is true at subduction zones?
A) Ocean crust is subducted because it is lighter than continental crust.
B) Continental crust is subducted because it is lighter than ocean crust.
C) Ocean crust is subducted because it is thicker than continental crust.
D) Continental crust is subducted because it is colder and denser than ocean crust.
E) Ocean crust is subducted because it is colder and denser than continental crust.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Ocean crust is subducted because it is colder and denser than continental crust. As the two plates converge, the denser oceanic plate sinks beneath the less dense continental plate, creating a subduction zone. This process is driven by the differences in density between the two types of crust, with the denser oceanic crust always being subducted beneath the less dense continental crust.

Which Statement About the Properties of Earth's Crust Is True