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sea-floor spreading

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sea-floor spreading [′sē ¦flȯr ‚spred·iŋ]
(geology)
The hypothesis that the ocean floor is spreading away from the midoceanic ridges and is being conveyed landward by convective cells in the earth's mantle, carrying the continental blocks as passive passengers; the ocean floor moves away from the midoceanic ridge at the rate of 0.4 to 4 inches (1 to 10 centimeters) per year and provides the source of power in the hypothesis of plate tectonics. Also known as ocean-floor spreading; spreading concept; spreading floor hypothesis.
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Because the ridge is adjacent to a volcanic hotspot on Iceland, the study also provides new information on how such heat sources affect ridges and may prompt reconsideration of existing models that explain such sea-floor spreading.
Buoyancy causes volcanic rocks to rise. (Geology) by USA Today (Magazine)
The new analysis helps resolve the structure of the magma--or molten rock--reservoir that feeds sea-floor spreading at the ridge, the researchers report in the May 18 NATURE.
Magma reservoir seen under ocean ridge by Monastersky, R. / Science News
Modern "black smokers," hot springs along sea-floor spreading centers, are small-scale analogs of these ancient deposits.
First Canadian American Holding Corporation Announces It Has ... by Business Wire
 
 
 
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