At a subduction zone,the overriding plate ____________.
A)is always composed of continental lithosphere
B)is always composed of oceanic lithosphere
C)may be composed of either oceanic or continental lithosphere

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The overriding plate at a subduction zone may be composed of either oceanic or continental lithosphere, depending on the tectonic setting. For example, when an oceanic plate is subducting beneath a continental plate, the overriding plate is composed of continental lithosphere. However, when two oceanic plates are converging, the older and denser plate will subduct, and the overriding plate will be composed of oceanic lithosphere.

At a Subduction Zone,the Overriding Plate ____________