Science Olympiad Dynamic Planet Practice Test

What concept is associated with Harry H. Hess's research in the 1960s?

1. Theory of uniformitarianism

2. Seafloor spreading

3. The origin of life

4. Contour mapping

The correct answer is: Seafloor spreading

Harry H. Hess is best known for his contribution to the understanding of seafloor spreading during the early 1960s. His research provided critical insight into the dynamics of plate tectonics, which explains how oceanic crust is created at mid-ocean ridges and then gradually moves away from these ridges, resulting in the growth of ocean basins. This process plays a fundamental role in the theory of plate tectonics, linking the movement of the Earth's lithospheric plates to geological phenomena such as earthquakes and volcanic activity. Seafloor spreading is the mechanism that explains how new ocean floor is formed by volcanic activity and how it contributes to the recycling of the Earth's crust over geological time. Hess's ideas were pivotal in shaping modern geological theories, and they helped to provide the necessary evidence for the continental drift theory proposed by Alfred Wegener. His conclusions highlighted the dynamic nature of the Earth’s surface and contributed greatly to our understanding of earth sciences. The other concepts mentioned are significant in their own right, but they do not relate to Hess’s specific research focus on seafloor spreading.