The concept that suggests the asthenosphere flows laterally away from a region to make space for a heavy lithospheric mass is known as ___________________.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The concept described in the question is related to the principle of isostasy, which states that the lithosphere (including the continental and oceanic crusts) is in a state of gravitational equilibrium floating on the denser and more plastic asthenosphere. This equilibrium can be disturbed by the addition or removal of mass from the lithosphere, causing it to either sink or rise relative to the asthenosphere below. When a heavy lithospheric mass (such as a mountain range or a thickened crust) is present, it will exert a stronger gravitational pull, causing the asthenosphere to flow laterally away from it and make space, thus maintaining isostatic balance.

The Concept That Suggests the Asthenosphere Flows Laterally Away from a Region