What evidence supports Hess’s theory of seafloor spreading? Check all that apply.

fossils of the same animals found in different areas
the direction iron in ocean rocks points
the tilt and rotation of the Earth’s axis
the age of different rocks on Earth’s surface
pillow-shaped rocks found in the sea

1 answer

The evidence that supports Hess's theory of seafloor spreading includes the following:

  1. Fossils of the same animals found in different areas - This indicates that continents were once connected and have since drifted apart, supporting the idea of seafloor spreading.

  2. The direction iron in ocean rocks points - The magnetic orientation of iron in ocean floor rocks provides evidence for seafloor spreading. As magma cools, iron particles align with Earth's magnetic field, and changes in magnetic orientation over time indicate the history of seafloor spreading.

  3. The age of different rocks on Earth’s surface - Younger rocks are found near mid-ocean ridges, and older rocks are found farther away, which supports the idea that new crust is created at the ridges and moves away over time.

  4. Pillow-shaped rocks found in the sea - These formations, known as pillow lavas, are indicative of volcanic activity under water, which is consistent with the formation of new oceanic crust at mid-ocean ridges.

The option the tilt and rotation of the Earth’s axis does not directly support Hess’s theory of seafloor spreading.