Question

seafloor spreading is a process -
that occurs at ocean trenches in which oceanic crust is recycled.
that occurs at mid-ocean ridges in which oceanic crust is recycled.
that occurs at mid-ocean ridges in which oceanic crust is formed and gradually moves away from the ridge.
that occurs at ocean trenches in which oceanic crust is formed and gradually moves away from the ridge.

Explanation:

Define seafloor spreading

Seafloor spreading is a geologic process where tectonic plates split apart from each other, allowing magma to rise from the Earth's mantle and cool to form new oceanic crust.

Identify the location of the process

This process occurs at divergent plate boundaries, specifically along mid-ocean ridges.

Analyze the direction of crust movement

As new oceanic crust is continuously formed at the ridge crest, it gradually moves laterally away from the ridge axis on both sides.

Answer:

• that occurs at ocean trenches in which oceanic crust is recycled.
• that occurs at mid-ocean ridges in which oceanic crust is recycled.
• that occurs at mid-ocean ridges in which oceanic crust is formed and gradually moves away from the ridge. (Correct answer)
• that occurs at ocean trenches in which oceanic crust is formed and gradually moves away from the ridge.