Question

which of the following contributes to the movement of tectonic plates?
i. push of newly formed crust
ii. pull of subducting plate
iii. weathering of continental crust
i only
iii only
i and ii
ii and iii

Explanation:

• I. Push of newly formed crust: At mid - ocean ridges, new crust is formed. As new material is added, it can push the existing tectonic plates away from the ridge.
• II. Pull of subducting plate: When one plate subducts (dives) beneath another, the weight of the subducting plate can pull the rest of the plate along.
• III. Weathering of continental crust: Weathering is a surface - level process that breaks down rocks. It does not contribute to the movement of tectonic plates which is driven by forces in the mantle and at plate boundaries.

Answer:

C. I and II