How is the age of oceanic crust determined?

How is the age of oceanic crust determined?

• A. Through sediment analysis
• B. By examining the distance from mid-ocean ridges
• C. By the type of materials present
• D. Through visual observation of crust features

Answer: (B)

The age of oceanic crust is primarily determined by examining the distance from mid-ocean ridges. When new oceanic crust is formed at mid-ocean ridges through volcanic activity, it gradually pushes the older crust away from the ridge. As a result, the age of the crust increases as one moves farther from the mid-ocean ridge. Scientists use this principle to assess the age of the crust: the further away the crust is from the ridge, the older it is. This relationship is supported by the patterns of magnetic reversals recorded in the crust, which can be matched to the geological timeline. This distance-age correlation enables geologists to precisely date oceanic crust based on its proximity to the site of creation, which is a key concept in plate tectonics.

The age of oceanic crust is primarily determined by examining the distance from mid-ocean ridges. When new oceanic crust is formed at mid-ocean ridges through volcanic activity, it gradually pushes the older crust away from the ridge. As a result, the age of the crust increases as one moves farther from the mid-ocean ridge. Scientists use this principle to assess the age of the crust: the further away the crust is from the ridge, the older it is. This relationship is supported by the patterns of magnetic reversals recorded in the crust, which can be matched to the geological timeline. This distance-age correlation enables geologists to precisely date oceanic crust based on its proximity to the site of creation, which is a key concept in plate tectonics.