Chapter 27, Problem 10RQ

To determine

The way that the seafloor spreading supports the theory of continental drift.

Answer to Problem 10RQ

The hypothesis of Harry Hess provided much needed mechanism required explaining continental drift.

Explanation of Solution

The hypothesis is given by Harry Hess according to which seafloor is not permanent, but it is continuously being renewed. It was proposed by the Hess that ocean ridges are located above upwelling convection currents in the mantle.

After distortion of the old lithosphere near the edges of some continents, a new lithosphere is formed when the material from the mantle oozes in an upward direction. This hypothesis is given by Harry Hess to provide a much-needed mechanism that is required to explain the continental drifts.

Conclusion:

Therefore, the hypothesis of Harry Hess provided much needed mechanism required to explaining continental drift.