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This article explores the concept of isostasy within the Rocky Mountain system, highlighting how differences in elevation are compensated by low-density roots beneath the surface. By comparing Earth's crust to a sponge floating in water, we can visualize how elevations are balanced. When external loads such as ice or sediments are added, they cause crustal loading that leads to downwarping. Conversely, the removal of these loads results in isostatic uplift. Understanding these geological processes is crucial for comprehending our planet’s dynamic crust.
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Cordillera Provinces Geology of National Parks
Isostasy At Work • Isostasy states that differences in elevation are compensated for by low-density roots • Imagine a sponge floating in water • Part of the sponge floats above the level of the water-it has positive elevation • Compensating that elevation is a low-density root-the portion of the sponge below the water (sponge is less dense than water)
Isostasy • Wood block is denser than foam, so more of the wood is submerged
Loading and Unloading • Crustal loading, as by ice, water, sediments, or volcanic flows, leads to isostatic depression or downwarping; removal of load, to isostatic uplift or upwarping
