Oceanic lithosphere thickens away from the mid-ocean ridge primarily due to
A) the addition of new crust due to hot-spot volcanism.
B) the addition of new crust due to sedimentation.
C) the addition of new lithospheric mantle as a result of cooling.
D) reasons that geologists cannot determine at present.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

As oceanic lithospheric plates move away from mid-ocean ridges, they cool and contract, causing them to become denser and thicker. This thickening occurs primarily due to the addition of new lithospheric mantle, as opposed to new crust or sedimentation.

Oceanic Lithosphere Thickens Away from the Mid-Ocean Ridge Primarily Due