What is a seafloor spreading center?
Quick Answer
A seafloor spreading center is a place, usually at a mid-ocean ridge, where new ocean crust forms as plates move apart. Magma rises, cools, and creates fresh seafloor.
The Full Story
At spreading centers, tectonic plates diverge and molten rock from the mantle rises into the gap. As it cools, it forms basaltic ocean crust, gradually widening the ocean basin. The Mid-Atlantic Ridge is a famous example and runs through the Atlantic Ocean, including Iceland where it rises above sea level. Seafloor spreading was a key piece of evidence in the acceptance of plate tectonics in the 1960s. It is also linked to shallow earthquakes and volcanic activity along ridge systems.
Key Facts
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Suggested video title for this topic:
"The underwater factory making new seafloor all the time"
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