Question

1. jaymir is comparing figures 1 and 2, and claims that there is an observable pattern in the data in both images. which statement best describes the pattern in the data?

the youngest part of the crust is the area that has no ocean ridges.
the mid-ocean ridges are much younger parts of the crust than the areas around them.
the mid-ocean ridges are much older parts of the crust than the areas around them.
the crust on the edges of the continents is the youngest.

Explanation:

To solve this, we recall the concept of seafloor spreading. Mid - ocean ridges are where new oceanic crust is formed as magma rises and solidifies. So, the mid - ocean ridges should be younger than the surrounding areas.

• The first option is wrong because the youngest crust is at mid - ocean ridges (where new crust is formed), not areas without ocean ridges.
• The third option is wrong as mid - ocean ridges are younger, not older, than surrounding areas.
• The fourth option is wrong because the youngest crust is at mid - ocean ridges, not continental edges.
• The second option is correct as mid - ocean ridges are sites of new crust formation, making them younger than surrounding areas.

Answer:

B. The mid - ocean ridges are much younger parts of the crust than the areas around them.