Plate Tectonics: Processes

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What is seafloor spreading?

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Seafloor spreading is the process by which new oceanic crust is formed at mid-ocean ridges as tectonic plates move apart, allowing magma to rise and solidify.

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NGSS.MS-ESS2-3

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What is subduction?

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Subduction is the geological process in which one tectonic plate moves under another plate and sinks into the mantle as the plates converge.

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Front

What are tectonic plates?

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

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NGSS.MS-ESS2-3

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What is the significance of mid-ocean ridges?

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Mid-ocean ridges are underwater mountain ranges formed by seafloor spreading, where new oceanic crust is created.

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NGSS.MS-ESS2-3

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How does seafloor spreading contribute to the creation of land?

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Seafloor spreading can lead to the formation of new landmasses as the ocean floor expands and pushes continents apart.

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What is the role of magma in seafloor spreading?

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Magma rises from the mantle to fill the gap created by diverging tectonic plates, solidifying to form new oceanic crust.

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NGSS.MS-ESS2-1

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What geological features are associated with subduction zones?

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Subduction zones are often associated with deep ocean trenches, volcanic arcs, and earthquakes.

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What is the relationship between tectonic plate movement and earthquakes?

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Earthquakes often occur at tectonic plate boundaries due to the stress and friction caused by the movement of the plates.

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NGSS.MS-ESS2-3

NGSS.MS-ESS3-2

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What is a divergent boundary?

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A divergent boundary is a tectonic plate boundary where two plates move away from each other, leading to seafloor spreading.

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NGSS.MS-ESS2-2

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What is a convergent boundary?

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A convergent boundary is a tectonic plate boundary where two plates collide, leading to subduction or mountain building.

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NGSS.HS-ESS1-5

NGSS.HS-ESS2-1