Shaping Earth's Surface

Front

What is a hot spot volcano?

Back

A hot spot volcano is formed over a plume of hot material that rises from deep within the Earth's mantle, creating volcanic activity independent of tectonic plate boundaries.

Front

Which island is the oldest in the Hawaiian chain?

Back

Kauai is the oldest island in the Hawaiian chain, formed first as the Pacific Plate moved over a hot spot.

Front

What natural disaster can be caused by an underwater earthquake?

Back

A tsunami can be caused by an underwater earthquake.

Front

What geological features are formed when two continental plates collide?

Back

Mountain ranges are formed when two continental plates collide.

Front

Why do volcanoes and earthquakes often occur in the same areas?

Back

Both volcanoes and earthquakes often occur near plate boundaries due to the movement of tectonic plates.

Front

What are tectonic plates?

Back

Tectonic plates are large sections of the Earth's lithosphere that move and interact at their boundaries, causing geological activity.

Front

What is the role of convection currents in the mantle?

Back

Convection currents in the mantle drive the movement of tectonic plates, influencing geological processes such as earthquakes and volcanic eruptions.

Front

What is the difference between oceanic and continental plates?

Back

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

Front

What is a subduction zone?

Back

A subduction zone is an area where one tectonic plate is being forced under another, often leading to volcanic activity and earthquakes.

Front

What is the Ring of Fire?

Back

The Ring of Fire is a major area in the basin of the Pacific Ocean where a large number of earthquakes and volcanic eruptions occur due to tectonic plate movements.