Answer:
I’m pretty sure it’s D
Step-by-step explanation:
D) the skeletons of tiny sea animals.
Many Caribbean islands are formed from coral reefs that have grown on top of the skeletons of tiny sea animals called coral polyps over millions of years. As these polyps die, their hard outer skeletons remain, and over time, these skeletons accumulate and form a foundation for the growth of more coral and other marine life. Eventually, the accumulation of these skeletons and other organic materials forms an island. However, some Caribbean islands, such as Jamaica and Puerto Rico, were formed from the collision of tectonic plates, which caused underwater mountains to rise up and form the islands.
More explanation:
Caribbean islands are generally classified as either volcanic or coral islands. Volcanic islands, such as St. Lucia, Martinique, and Montserrat, were formed by volcanic activity, while coral islands, such as Barbados, the Bahamas, and the Cayman Islands, were formed by the accumulation of coral and other organic materials.
Coral reefs are built up over time by the accumulation of the calcium carbonate skeletons of tiny sea animals called coral polyps. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), coral reefs grow at a rate of about 1 to 2 centimeters per year, and over time, the accumulation of these skeletons can form an island. The NOAA also states that most Caribbean islands were formed by the growth of coral reefs on top of the remnants of old sea mounts.
In contrast, the other answer choices do not accurately describe the formation of most Caribbean islands. High, flat plateaus are not typically associated with Caribbean islands, and while earthquakes and hurricanes can certainly impact the islands, they do not play a significant role in their formation. Additionally, while some Caribbean islands have a history of shipwrecks and piracy, they were not formed from the wreckage of old sailing ships.
In summary, the accumulation of the skeletons of tiny sea animals, specifically coral polyps, is the primary process by which most Caribbean islands are formed, making answer choice D the correct answer.