How do mineral deposits form at divergent ocean plate boundaries

Question

-Heat and pressure change the chemical composition of rocks to form minerals
-metals dissolve in superheated water, forming minerals when the water cools
-Underground minerals are lifted up by land movement and exposed by weathering and erosion
-Deep underground minerals are lifted up by land movement and exposed by weathering and erosion

Answer 1

At divergent ocean plate boundaries, mineral deposits primarily form through the process of hydrothermal activity associated with superheated water. The correct explanation from the options you've provided is:

• Metals dissolve in superheated water, forming minerals when the water cools.

Here's a brief overview of the process:

1. Divergence and Seafloor Spreading: As tectonic plates move apart at ocean ridges, magma from the mantle rises to fill the gap, creating new oceanic crust.

2. Hydrothermal Vent Formation: This magma heats the surrounding seawater, creating hydrothermal vents where superheated, mineral-rich water is expelled.

3. Mineral Formation: As this hot water rises and interacts with the cooler ocean water, it can precipitate minerals when the temperature drops or when changes in pressure occur. This process leads to the formation of various mineral deposits, including sulfides and other metal-rich compounds.

This mechanism is key to the formation of significant mineral deposits, such as those found near hydrothermal vents on the ocean floor.