Which geographical feature supports the theory of continental drift?

Study for the CRST History of Life (290) – Section B05 exam. Prepare with targeted questions, hints, and detailed explanations to ensure success. Ace your exam with confidence!

The correct choice highlights mid-ocean ridges as a geographical feature that supports the theory of continental drift. Mid-ocean ridges are underwater mountain ranges formed by the upwelling of magma from the Earth's mantle, which creates new oceanic crust. This process is a fundamental aspect of the theory of plate tectonics, which explains how the continents are not fixed but instead drift over time.

The presence of mid-ocean ridges provides tangible evidence for continental drift because they indicate the locations where tectonic plates are diverging. As these plates pull apart, they create space for new material to rise and solidify, illustrating the dynamic nature of the Earth's surface. This phenomenon supports the idea that continents move apart from each other, reinforcing the concept of continental drift.

Mid-ocean ridges also contribute to the understanding of seafloor spreading, which occurs as new crust is formed at these ridges, pushing older crust away from the ridge and supporting the movement of continental landmasses. This concept is a key element of the broader theory that explains geological and geographical changes of the Earth over time.

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