The Origin of The Land Under The Sea

This paper entitled "The Origin of The Land Under The Sea" states that submarine volcanic lava is responsible for the development of land under the sea.  Geophysicists performing research have determined that volcanoes form ridges all around the world.  These ridges are eventually pulled apart by the earth's crust.  The gap left after these ridges are pulled apart are then filled in with hot material or lava from deep within the earth's rocky interior leading to the development of land under the sea.  Researchers have tried to determine how the lava travels to the earth's surface and where it originates.  Some answers have been provided.  The interaction between solid rock and lava, and the examination of blocks of old seafloor that's now exposed has helped in providing these answers.  This can result in a good science project to demonstrate to students the entire process of land formation under the sea.

Reference:

 

Kelemen, Peter. B. "The Origin Of The Land Under The Sea."  Scientific American. Feb. 2009. vol. 300, issue 2, p. 52-57.

 

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