How do oceanic and continental plates differ?

Oceanic and continental plates exhibit significant differences in their composition and density, which are key factors in understanding plate tectonics and geological processes. Oceanic plates are indeed denser than continental plates, primarily because they are composed mostly of basalt, a denser volcanic rock, compared to the lighter granite that predominantly makes up continental plates. This difference in density is crucial in the context of subduction zones, where oceanic plates can be forced beneath continental plates, leading to geological phenomena such as earthquakes and the formation of mountain ranges.

The density of oceanic plates also contributes to their thinner structure compared to continental plates, which tend to be thicker and less dense. This helps explain why oceanic plates usually have a lower elevation than continental areas, leading to the formation of ocean basins. Understanding these differences enhances our knowledge of Earth's geology and the dynamics of its tectonic plates.