According to the theory of isostasy, which statement must be true?

Question

Question 17 options:

A)

The asthenosphere is denser than the lithosphere.

B)

The lithosphere has the same density as the core.

C)

The lithosphere is denser than the asthenosphere.

D)

The asthenosphere has the same density as the lithosphere.

Answer 1

According to the theory of isostasy, the correct statement from the options provided is:

C) The lithosphere is denser than the asthenosphere.

In the context of isostasy, the lithosphere floats on the more ductile asthenosphere due to differences in density. The lithosphere is generally composed of crust (continental and oceanic) and is less dense than the underlying mantle, but within this context, it is considered denser than the asthenosphere itself which allows for the concept of isostatic balance.