Chapter 27, Problem 12TE

To determine

The way to support d the theories of seafloor and continental drift by paleomagnetic data.

Answer to Problem 12TE

The apparent polar wander paths provided the evidence for continental drift, while marine magnetic anomalies provided the evidence for seafloor spreading and categorized as the techniques that support these theories.

Explanation of Solution

The two techniques that were used to support the theories of continental drift and seafloor spreading are apparent polar wander for continental drift, while magnetic anomalies provided the evidence for seafloor spreading.

The magnetic variation in the consecutive bands of ocean floor parallels with mid-ocean ridges evident the theory of seafloor spreading, while apparent polar wander uses the path of Earth’s paleomagnetic poles relative to a continent that remains fixed and determines the continental drift in this manner.

Conclusion:

Therefore, the apparent polar wander paths provided the evidence for continental drift, while marine magnetic anomalies provided the evidence for seafloor spreading and categorized as the techniques that support these theories.