Describe the differences between the oceanic and continental crust.

The oceanic crust is generally younger than the continental crust as it is less than 200 million years old and can also be renewed or destroyed at plate boundaries. For example, the oceanic crust which forms Iceland is only 1 million years old. The oceanic crust is also denser, being made out of basalt, compared to the continental crust which is made of granite. As a result, the oceanic crust can sink beneath the continental crust at constructive plate margins and also be destroyed at subduction plate margins.

EP
Answered by Emma P. Geography tutor

9113 Views

See similar Geography GCSE tutors

Related Geography GCSE answers

All answers ▸

What physical processes result in the formation of a meander?


Why might ethnic minority migrants concentrate in the inner-city center? [4 marks]


Explain the processes that occur to form an arch along a coastal landscape.


Describe 3 advantages of migration for the host country.


We're here to help

contact us iconContact usWhatsapp logoMessage us on Whatsapptelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2025

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy
Cookie Preferences