Question

which of the following contributes to the movement of tectonic plates?
i. deposition of sediment on the ocean floor
ii. push of newly formed crust
iii. mantle convection

Explanation:

• I. Deposition of sediment on the ocean floor: This does not contribute to the movement of tectonic plates. Sediment deposition is more related to processes like erosion and sedimentation rather than plate movement.
• II. Push of newly formed crust: At mid - ocean ridges, new crust is formed. As new crust is created, it “pushes” the older crust away from the ridge, which is a mechanism for plate movement.
• III. Mantle convection: The convection currents in the mantle act like a conveyor belt. The hot, less - dense material rises, and the cooler, denser material sinks. This movement exerts a force on the overlying tectonic plates, causing them to move.

Answer:

I and II