Plate Tectonics Questions
The main difference between a continental plate and an oceanic plate lies in their composition and density.
Continental plates are primarily composed of less dense granitic rocks, which are lighter and thicker compared to oceanic plates. These plates are typically older and thicker, ranging from 30 to 50 kilometers in thickness. Continental plates are also less dense than oceanic plates, which allows them to "float" on the underlying asthenosphere.
On the other hand, oceanic plates are mainly composed of denser basaltic rocks, which are heavier and thinner compared to continental plates. These plates are generally younger and thinner, ranging from 5 to 10 kilometers in thickness. Oceanic plates are denser than continental plates, causing them to sink beneath continental plates during subduction zones.
In summary, the key differences between continental plates and oceanic plates are their composition, density, age, and thickness.