Theory of Plate Tectonics

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What is the Theory of Plate Tectonics?

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The Theory of Plate Tectonics explains that the Earth's outer shell, or lithosphere, is divided into several plates that glide over the semi-fluid asthenosphere beneath. This movement is responsible for many geological phenomena, including earthquakes, volcanic activity, and the formation of mountain ranges.

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What is a Mid-Ocean Ridge?

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A Mid-Ocean Ridge is an underwater mountain range formed by plate tectonics, where two oceanic plates are diverging. It is characterized by volcanic activity and is a site of new oceanic crust formation.

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What is a Continental Plate?

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A Continental Plate is a type of tectonic plate that primarily makes up the continents. It is generally thicker and less dense than oceanic plates.

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What type of plate boundary is characterized by plates moving apart?

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A divergent plate boundary is characterized by tectonic plates moving apart from each other, leading to the formation of rift valleys and mid-ocean ridges.

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What happens when oceanic crust collides with continental crust?

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When oceanic crust collides with continental crust, the denser oceanic crust typically sinks below the continental crust in a process known as subduction.

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What is a rift valley?

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A rift valley is a lowland region formed by the divergence of tectonic plates, characterized by steep walls and often filled with water.

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What landform is created when two oceanic plates converge?

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When two oceanic plates converge, they can create a volcanic island arc, which is a chain of volcanic islands formed as a result of subduction.

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What is subduction?

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Subduction is the process by which one tectonic plate moves under another plate and sinks into the mantle, often leading to volcanic activity and the formation of mountain ranges.

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What is the difference between oceanic and continental crust?

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Oceanic crust is thinner, denser, and primarily composed of basalt, while continental crust is thicker, less dense, and primarily composed of granite.

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What geological features are commonly associated with convergent plate boundaries?

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Convergent plate boundaries are commonly associated with mountain ranges, deep ocean trenches, and volcanic arcs.