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Detailed File Information
Depth Data Across the Reykjanes Ridge
File Name m00001.dat.553.depth.data.reykjanes.pdf
Data Type spreadsheet
Computer Program Microsoft Excel 2000
File Size 35.00 KB - 2 files [ pdf,xls ]
Expert Level Middle School (Grade 6-8)
Contributor ERESE Database Team
Source Enduring Resources for Earth Science Education (ERESE)
Resource Matrix Seafloor Spreading
Description
The attached data table provides depth (bathymetry) data for points across the Reykjanes Ridge in the North Atlantic (near Iceland). The distances from the ridge are based on sample locations shown on the Bathymetry Map Across the Reykjanes Ridge. Plotting the depth data allows you to view the topography scale across the ridge. When looking at the graph, you can see that the highest elevation is at the center, which represents the ridge crest. Away from the spreading center, the terrain becomes more jagged and mountainous because the spreading rate for the Mid-Atlantic Ridge (Reykjanes is a section of this ridge) is relatively slow. Slower spreading rates allow the new oceanic crust to cool and become less deformable. The data also shows oceanic depth increasing as you move further from the ridge because the plate cools it becomes more dense, causing it to contract and sink.
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