Science Olympiad Dynamic Planet Practice Test

Who proposed that convection in the mantle drives continental drift?

1. Harry H. Hess

2. Arthur Holmes

3. Robert S. Dietz

4. Frederick J. Vine

The correct answer is: Arthur Holmes

The idea that convection in the mantle drives continental drift was proposed by Arthur Holmes, a pioneering geologist. Holmes was instrumental in developing the concept of mantle convection, which suggests that the movement of the earth's tectonic plates is caused by the heat from the Earth’s interior creating convection currents in the semi-fluid mantle. This process can lead to the movement of continents over geological time, thus supporting the theory of continental drift. In contrast, the other individuals listed made significant contributions to the field of geology and plate tectonics, but their focus was different. Harry H. Hess is known for proposing the theory of seafloor spreading, which explains how new oceanic crust is formed at mid-ocean ridges. Robert S. Dietz also contributed to the development of the seafloor spreading theory. Frederick J. Vine was influential in the magnetic striping evidence related to seafloor spreading, which helped confirm the movement of tectonic plates but did not directly link mantle convection with continental drift. Thus, Holmes's unique contribution to the understanding of mantle convection makes him the correct answer to this question.