Which type of crust is capable of subducting into the mantle?

• A. Continental
• B. Oceanic
• C. Thick
• D. Granitic

Answer: (B)

Oceanic crust is capable of subducting into the mantle primarily due to its density and composition. It is generally denser than continental crust, which allows it to sink at convergent plate boundaries where an oceanic plate collides with either another oceanic plate or continental plate. This process of subduction leads to the formation of deep ocean trenches and volcanic arcs, as the descending oceanic plate melts and contributes to magma formation.

The oceanic crust is primarily composed of basalt, which is heavier than the granitic composition of continental crust. As a result, when two tectonic plates interact, the denser oceanic crust will subduct beneath the lighter continental crust, leading to various geological phenomena associated with subduction zones.

Given its properties, oceanic crust plays a crucial role in the recycling of Earth's materials and is integral to understanding plate tectonics and related geological activities.