In one model of the earth the continents are assumed to float on layers of molte

Question

In one model of the earth the continents are assumed to float on layers of molten rock below. Take the average specific gravity of the continents to be sc = 2.67. Assume that they are supported hydrostatically by the underlying material with an average specific gravity s0 = 3.27. (a) If the continents are modeled as blocks of thickness t, show that the depth of the continent is (sc/s0)t. (b) If the average elevation of the continent were 3.00 km, what thickness would this model predict for that continent?

Explanation / Answer

When continents floats on molten rock , rock will provide buoyant force that will support the weight of the continent.

Buoyant force = weight of continent

Vsubmerged *So *g = Vcontinent *Sc *g

Vsubmerged / Vcontinent = [2.67/3.27] =0.8165

Suppose the continent is in shape of cuboid whose area is A and height is t and deptht of submerged part is

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