Why are the continents about 20 times older than the oldest ocean basins?
A) Because ocean basins form from spreading centers, which produces new oceanic crust.
B) Because continental material is low-density and does not get thrust into the subduction zone.
C) Both of these are true

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Ocean basins are constantly being recycled through the process of plate tectonics, where new oceanic crust is formed at spreading centers and old crust is subducted. Continental crust, being less dense, does not subduct easily and thus remains much older.

Why Are the Continents About 20 Times Older Than the Oldest