How does isostasy explain the formation of rift valleys?
A) root decreases under compression
B) density decreases under tension
C) root decreases under tension
D) density decreases under compression

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Isostasy states that the Earth's crust floats on the underlying mantle. When tension forces act on the crust, the root of the crust thins out, and its density decreases. This makes the crust rise, causing stretching and faulting, which ultimately leads to the formation of rift valleys.

How Does Isostasy Explain the Formation of Rift Valleys