Final answer:
The Earth's surface does indeed show evidence of tectonic processes through volcanic mountains, mid-ocean ridges, deep-sea trenches, and earthquake patterns. These features demonstrate the dynamic nature of our planet's lithosphere and the ongoing movement of tectonic plates.
Step-by-step explanation:
Does Earth's Surface Show Evidence of Tectonic Processes?
Yes, the Earth's surface provides clear evidence of tectonic processes. Examples include the formation of volcanic mountains such as those above subduction zones, where an oceanic plate descends beneath a continental plate, melting and leading to volcanic activity. Similarly, mid-ocean ridges are formed by divergent tectonic plates, where magma rises to create new oceanic crust. Deep-sea trenches, on the other hand, are a result of convergent boundaries where one plate is forced below another into the mantle, creating these deep undersea features.
Other tectonic evidence on the Earth's surface includes earthquakes that occur along fault lines, and the varying topography and bathymetry that reveals historical tectonic activity. The study of the Earth’s topography allows geologists to infer past tectonic events since direct observation is not possible. This approach, known as uniformitarianism, underpins much of our understanding of geological processes. Earthquakes, mountain building, and patterns in volcanic activity help us locate and understand the nature of these plate boundaries. The topography of continental margins and ocean basins can also indicate the position of ancient plate boundaries.
The correct answer to the question is option c) Yes, through the formation of mid-ocean ridges and deep-sea trenches.