Seafloor Spreading Facts: Theory, Dangers And Much More For You
Seafloor spreading is a geological process.
Volcanic activity often leads to a new oceanic crust formation on the oceanic floor. This activity causes older rocks to move away from the mid-oceanic ridge, due to which seafloor spreading occurs.
It means that the tectonic plates of the Lithosphere shift and split apart from each other. This theory was one of the first hypotheses to discuss the concept of the movement and development of the seafloor.
This theory played an essential role in the development of plate tectonics. It was a raging field of discussion during the late 20th century. The researchers are still working on understanding the formation of new oceanic crusts and the differences in rock densities around the ridge.
After the Second World War, various vessels equipped with SONAR helped with the research. The experts were able to collect ocean-depth profiles as they traveled across. Mary Tharp, an American oceanic cartographer, created several maps. The maps revealed the presence of the newly-formed Mid-Atlantic Range in 1953.
It was about 10,000 mi (16,093 km) long. This incident intrigued the interest of several geophysicists across the world. That included Harry H. Hess.
Earth science experts state that the material in this range's upper mantle rises through the oceanic plate gap. This concept leads to the development of a new crust. It develops as the plates move away. Further, the new crust also moves away from the ridge, making it a hub for volcanos and earthquakes.