The shape of Earth's hypsographic curve can be used to support the existence of plate tectonics.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The hypsographic curve represents the distribution of land and water on the surface of Earth. The curve shows a bimodal distribution with peaks at sea level and at the elevation of continents. This distribution is explained by the theory of plate tectonics which states that Earth's lithosphere is divided into a number of rigid plates that move and interact with each other. As a result, oceanic plates sink beneath continental plates, creating oceanic trenches and volcanic arcs. The subduction of oceanic plates also contributes to the formation of continents by adding material to the edges of continental plates. Therefore, the shape of the hypsographic curve reflects the processes associated with plate tectonics.

The Shape of Earth's Hypsographic Curve Can Be Used to Support