How does seafloor spreading support the theory of plate tectonics?

Plate Tectonics Questions



58 Short 67 Medium 49 Long Answer Questions Question Index

How does seafloor spreading support the theory of plate tectonics?

Seafloor spreading supports the theory of plate tectonics by providing evidence for the movement and interaction of Earth's tectonic plates. As new oceanic crust is formed at mid-ocean ridges through volcanic activity, it pushes older crust away from the ridge, creating a spreading motion. This spreading motion allows for the continuous movement of the tectonic plates, which fits with the idea of plate tectonics. Additionally, the age of the seafloor rocks gets progressively older as one moves away from the mid-ocean ridges, providing further evidence for the concept of seafloor spreading and plate movement.