The discovery of marine magnetic anomalies was so important to the theory of seafloor spreading because they

Question

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Marine magnetic anomalies are caused by variations in the Earth's magnetic field that are captured as new oceanic crust forms at mid-ocean ridges. As magma cools and solidifies into new crust, the mineral magnetite in the rock aligns itself with the Earth's magnetic field at the time of its formation. By measuring the magnetic signature of the rocks at different distances from the mid-ocean ridge, geologists can determine the age and rate of seafloor spreading, and use this information to develop a detailed understanding of plate tectonics. Therefore, the discovery of marine magnetic anomalies was crucial in providing an accurate record of the creation and movement of oceanic crust.

The Discovery of Marine Magnetic Anomalies Was So Important to the Theory