Chapter 29, Problem 16RQ

To determine

The effect of breakup of Pangaea have on sea level.

Answer to Problem 16RQ

The effect of breakup of Pangaea resulted in rise of sea level.

Explanation of Solution

In the Mesozoic Era, the breakup of Pangaea started to take place. The breakup of the Pangaea occurred in different phases throughout the Paleozoic. During the first phase, the formation of two rift zone between two continents took place. This led to the beginning of the central Atlantic Ocean basin. In the second phase, this basin spread southward and resulted in the separation of more continents. Similarly, in this phase formation of the Indian Ocean also occurred. The separation of Pangaea also resulted in the formation of the Pacific oceanic crust. The breakup of Pangaea leads to the separation of landmass, resulting in a worldwide rise in sea level.

Conclusion:

Therefore,the effect of breakup of Pangaea resulted in rise of sea level.