At a depth of 32 km, basaltic rock melts at around 1,400°C but this same rock will melt at only 1,250°C at Earth's surface.  Group startsTrue or False

Analysis of the Statement

1. Understanding the Concepts: The melting point of basaltic rock varies with pressure. At greater depths in the Earth, the pressure increases, which typically raises the melting point. The statement contrasts two temperatures at different depths.

2. Depth vs. Temperature: At a depth of 32 km (where the pressure is significantly higher), basaltic rock melts at around 1,400°C. Conversely, at Earth's surface, where the pressure is lower, it melts at around 1,250°C.

Conclusion

Given the information provided and the principle that increased pressure raises melting points, the statement is:

True. Basaltic rock does indeed have a higher melting point under increased pressure at a depth of 32 km compared to its melting point at Earth's surface.