Which of these properly illustrates the principle of isostasy?
A) High-density crust floats on top of low-density mantle.
B) Mountains stand high because they are gravitationally balanced by their deep crustal roots.
C) When weight is added to the crust,the crust responds by rebounding upward.
D) When material is removed from the crust,the crust maintains the new,lower elevation.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The principle of isostasy states that the Earth's crust is in a state of balance or equilibrium, meaning that the force of gravity pulling the crust downwards is balanced by the buoyant force of the mantle pushing the crust upwards. Mountains are able to stand high because their deep crustal roots exert a gravitational pull that is balanced by their buoyancy within the mantle. This is illustrated in choice B.

Which of These Properly Illustrates the Principle of Isostasy