Final answer:
Paleomagnetists found symmetrical bands with alternating magnetic polarity, and a pattern where older rocks are further from the Mid-Atlantic Ridge with younger rocks closer, which support the theory of seafloor spreading.
Step-by-step explanation:
When paleomagnetists study the magnetic properties of rocks around the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, they find evidence that supports the theory that the Earth's crust is spreading. One key piece of evidence is B. Symmetrical bands with alternating polarity of metal particles inside the rock on both sides of the ridge. This phenomenon is called magnetic striping and demonstrates the periodic reversal of Earth's magnetic field over geological time. Another important discovery is C.
Older rocks are found further from the ridge, while younger rocks are closer, indicating new material is consistently added at the ridge and pushed outward as the seafloor spreads. Lastly, D. Younger rocks are found on the surface while older rocks are deeper in the crust, which supports the understanding of new crust formation at the ridge and subsequent layering. These findings are crucial for understanding continental drift and plate tectonics.
Paleomagnetists study the magnetic properties of rocks to understand the movement of Earth's tectonic plates. The evidence they found in the rocks around the Mid-Atlantic Ridge that proves the crust is spreading includes:
Symmetrical bands with alternating polarity of metal particles inside the rock on both sides of the ridge. This indicates that the magnetic field has changed directions over time.
Older rocks are found further from the ridge, while younger rocks are found closer to the ridge. This is because new rock material is constantly being added at the ridge, pushing older rocks away.
Younger rocks are found on the surface, while older rocks are found in the lower layers of the crust. As new rock material is added at the ridge, it pushes older rocks down and away from the surface.