Why Does Some Ocean Exist on Continental Crust?

Why is there an ocean on the continental crust?

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FAQs

1. What is the primary reason why some ocean exists on continental crust?

The distribution of oceanic and continental crust on Earth is primarily controlled by plate tectonics, a theory that explains how the Earth’s lithosphere is divided into a number of plates that move relative to each other.

2. What happens when oceanic crust encounters continental crust?

When oceanic crust encounters continental crust, it can either be subducted beneath the continent or it can thicken and rise up to form an oceanic plateau on top of the continent.

3. How are oceanic plateaus formed?

Oceanic plateaus are believed to be formed by large-scale volcanic eruptions that occur over a short period of time, resulting in the rapid accumulation of basaltic lava flows. Some oceanic plateaus are located on top of continental crust, such as the Ontong Java Plateau in the western Pacific Ocean.

4. What is a hotspot?

A hotspot is an area of the mantle where magma rises up and melts through the crust. Hotspots are believed to be the cause of large igneous provinces, such as oceanic plateaus.

5. What are the impacts of oceanic plateaus on oceanography?

The presence of an oceanicplateau on top of continental crust can create a barrier between different ocean basins, which can affect the circulation of ocean currents and the distribution of marine organisms. The height of the plateau can also affect the depth of the ocean floor, which can impact the generation of ocean waves and the propagation of tsunamis.

6. How can the presence of an oceanic plateau affect the exploration and extraction of natural resources?

The thick layers of basaltic rocks on top of the plateau can act as a barrier, making it difficult to drill through to access the underlying sedimentary rock layers that may contain natural resources such as oil and gas.

7. What is needed for a better understanding of the formation and impacts of oceanic plateaus on top of continental crust?

Further research is needed to fully understand the formation and impacts of oceanic plateaus on top of continental crust.