Why Does Oceanic Lithosphere Almost Always Sink Beneath Continental Lithosphere

question 31

Multiple Choice

Why does oceanic lithosphere almost always sink beneath continental lithosphere at convergent plate boundaries?

• A) Oceanic lithosphere moves so slowly that it can only sink.
• B) Oceanic lithosphere is at the bottom of the ocean, so it can't float high enough to ride over a continent.
• C) Oceanic lithosphere is almost twice as dense as the underlying mantle.
• D) Oceanic lithosphere is denser than continental lithosphere.
• E) Oceanic lithosphere is partly liquid, so it floats on the solid continental lithosphere.

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Definitions:

Above the Cost

A situation where the selling price or market value of an asset exceeds its original purchase cost or production cost.

Bond Sinking Fund

A fund established by a bond issuer into which money is set aside over time, intended to be used to repay the principal amount of the bond at maturity.

Long-Term Investment

An investment held for an extended period, typically more than a year, to earn interest, dividends, or capital gains.

Maturity

Maturity indicates the date on which the principal or final payment is due to be paid on a loan, bond, or other financial instrument.