Why does the continental crust rise higher than the oceanic crust?

Question

Responses

A The oceanic crust is younger.The oceanic crust is younger.

B The continental crust is thicker.The continental crust is thicker.

C The continental crust is less dense.The continental crust is less dense.

D The oceanic crust is made up of primarily granite.The oceanic crust is made up of primarily granite.

Answer 1

The correct response is:

C. The continental crust is less dense.

The continental crust is generally composed of lighter, less dense rocks (such as granite), compared to the oceanic crust, which is composed of denser basaltic rocks. This lower density causes the continental crust to "float" higher on the mantle compared to the denser oceanic crust.