Midterm #1-Chapter 2

Question 1

Isostasy

Answer 1

Gravitational equlilbrium whereby lithosphere “folots on denser, deformable asthenosphere at an elevation dependent on thickness and density
ex: like an iceberg floating

Question 2

What is isostatic adjustment?

Answer 2

Adding or subtracting mass from the floating object (lithosphere) leads to a change in elevation

Question 3

Isostasy and Mountains

Answer 3

• Mountains are underlain by thicker lithosphere

- Oceanic lithosphere (denser) sits lower than continental lithosphere (low elevations causes ocean basins)