Topic: Theories (continental drift theory, sea floor spreading, plate tectonics theory)
2. Discuss the concept of Sea-floor spreading and explain the relationship between underwater ocean ridges and the seafloor spreading theory. (250 words)
Reference: National Geographic
Why the question:
The question is from the static portions of GS paper I, section geography.
Key Demand of the question:
One must discuss the concept of Sea-floor spreading and explain the relationship between underwater ocean ridges and the seafloor spreading theory.
Directive:
Discuss – This is an all-encompassing directive – you have to debate on paper by going through the details of the issues concerned by examining each one of them. You have to give reasons for both for and against arguments.
Structure of the answer:
Introduction:
Start by explaining what Sea floor spreading is; Seafloor spreading is a geologic process in which tectonic plates—large slabs of Earth’s lithosphere—split apart from each other.
Body:
Explain the causative factors of the sea floor spreading. Explain the mechanism involved.
Seafloor spreading and other tectonic activity processes are the result of mantle convection. Mantle convection is the slow, churning motion of Earth’s mantle. Convection currents carry heat from the lower mantle and core to the lithosphere. Convection currents also “recycle” lithospheric materials back to the mantle.
Use suitable diagrams to explain the processes involved in sea floor spreading.
In the second half of the answer, explain the relationship between underwater ocean ridges and the seafloor spreading theory.
Conclusion:
Conclude by suggesting how Seafloor spreading helps explain continental drift in the theory of plate tectonics.
