why are rift zones common placed for igneous rock to form

Physics · Middle School · Tue Nov 03 2020

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Rift zones, which are areas where the Earth's lithosphere is being pulled apart, are common places for igneous rock formation due to the process of volcanism. Here's why:


Magma Generation: The extension and thinning of the Earth's crust in rift zones create conditions favorable for the upwelling of molten rock, known as magma, from the mantle. As the lithosphere pulls apart, magma rises to fill the gap, eventually reaching the Earth's surface.


Magma Solidification: When magma reaches the surface, it's exposed to lower pressure and temperatures. This causes it to solidify and form igneous rocks. The two main types of igneous rocks formed in this way are basaltic rocks, associated with oceanic rift zones, and rhyolitic or andesitic rocks, associated with continental rift zones.


Diverse Igneous Compositions: The composition of igneous rocks formed in rift zones can vary widely, depending on factors such as the source of the magma and the geological characteristics of the region. This leads to the creation of a diverse range of igneous rocks.


In summary, the geological activity in rift zones, characterized by the upwelling of magma and its solidification upon reaching the Earth's surface, makes these areas common places for the formation of igneous rocks.