Question

which was an argument used to dispute the theory of plate tectonics?
a. magnetic striping shows seafloor spreading.
b. mesosaurus fossils are found across long ocean distances.
c. mountain ranges in america and england match up.
d. continents cannot cut through the ocean floor.

Explanation:

• Option A: Magnetic stripping showing seafloor spreading is evidence for plate tectonics, not against. Seafloor spreading is a key part of plate - tectonic theory.
• Option B: Mesosaurus fossils found across long ocean distances is evidence for continental drift (a part of plate - tectonic theory). It suggests that continents were once connected.
• Option C: Mountain ranges in America and England matching up is evidence for continental drift (and thus plate tectonics). It implies that the continents were once joined.
• Option D: The idea that continents cannot cut through the ocean floor was an argument used to dispute plate - tectonic theory. Early opponents of plate tectonics thought the ocean floor was too rigid for continents to move through it.

Answer:

D. Continents cannot cut through the ocean floor.