Mid-Oceanic Ridges form an interconnected chain of mountain system wi...
It is the longest mountain-chain on the surface of the Earth through submerged under the oceanic waters. It is characterised by a central rift system at the crest, a fractionated plateau and flank zone all along its length. The rift system at the crest is the zone of intense volcanic activity. There is no such zone of Wegner’s oscillations.
Mid-Oceanic Ridges form an interconnected chain of mountain system wi...
Mid-Oceanic Ridges Overview
Mid-Oceanic Ridges are underwater mountain ranges formed by plate tectonics, primarily at divergent boundaries where tectonic plates are moving apart.
Rift System Characteristics
- The central rift system is the hallmark of Mid-Oceanic Ridges.
- It is a linear feature characterized by a deep valley or trough.
Zone of Intense Volcanic Activity
- The rift at the crest is indeed the Zone of Intense Volcanic Activity.
- This is where magma from the mantle rises to the surface due to the tectonic plates moving apart.
Processes Involved
- Seafloor Spreading: As the tectonic plates diverge, magma fills the gap, solidifying to form new oceanic crust.
- This process leads to frequent volcanic eruptions, creating new landforms and contributing to the ocean floor's topography.
Geological Significance
- The volcanic activity at the rift system is crucial for the creation of new oceanic crust.
- It also plays a role in the recycling of materials between the Earth's surface and the mantle.
Conclusion
Thus, the rift system at the crest of Mid-Oceanic Ridges is a dynamic and active zone characterized by significant volcanic activity, making option 'B' the correct answer. Understanding this activity is vital for grasping the processes that shape our planet's geology.
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