Plate Tectonics Check

Front

What is the theory of plate tectonics?

Back

The theory of plate tectonics explains the movement of the Earth's lithosphere, which is divided into tectonic plates that float on the semi-fluid asthenosphere beneath them.

Front

What are the three main types of plate boundaries?

Back

The three main types of plate boundaries are divergent boundaries, convergent boundaries, and transform boundaries.

Front

What occurs at divergent boundaries?

Back

At divergent boundaries, tectonic plates move apart from each other, leading to the formation of new crust as magma rises to the surface.

Front

What is a convergent boundary?

Back

A convergent boundary is where two tectonic plates move towards each other, often resulting in one plate being forced beneath another (subduction) or the formation of mountain ranges.

Front

What is a transform boundary?

Back

A transform boundary is where two tectonic plates slide past each other horizontally, which can cause earthquakes.

Front

What geological features are commonly associated with divergent boundaries?

Back

Divergent boundaries are commonly associated with mid-ocean ridges, rift valleys, and volcanic activity.

Front

What geological features are commonly associated with convergent boundaries?

Back

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

Front

What is the San Andreas Fault an example of?

Back

The San Andreas Fault is an example of a transform boundary, where the North American plate and the Pacific plate slide past each other.

Front

What happens to tectonic plates at transform boundaries?

Back

At transform boundaries, tectonic plates move laterally past each other, which can lead to earthquakes.

Front

What is subduction?

Back

Subduction is the process by which one tectonic plate is forced beneath another plate into the mantle, often occurring at convergent boundaries.