Review-Geological Processes Study Guide 2

Front

What is a divergent plate boundary?

Back

A divergent plate boundary is a tectonic plate boundary where two plates move away from each other, leading to the formation of new crust as magma rises to the surface.

Front

What was the name of the supercontinent that existed 200-300 million years ago?

Back

The supercontinent was called Pangaea.

Front

What is ridge push in the context of plate tectonics?

Back

Ridge push is a tectonic process that occurs at mid-ocean ridges, where the elevated position of the ridge causes the lithosphere to slide away from the ridge, pushing tectonic plates apart.

Front

What instrument is used to measure and record seismic waves?

Back

The instrument is called a seismometer.

Front

What geological feature is formed when two oceanic plates diverge?

Back

A mid-ocean ridge is formed when two oceanic plates diverge.

Front

What is a convergent plate boundary?

Back

A convergent plate boundary is where two tectonic plates move towards each other, often resulting in one plate being forced beneath another in a process called subduction.

Front

What is the process of subduction?

Back

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

Front

What are transform plate boundaries?

Back

Transform plate boundaries are locations where two tectonic plates slide past one another horizontally, leading to earthquakes.

Front

What is the significance of 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.

Front

What is a tectonic plate?

Back

A tectonic plate is a massive, irregularly shaped slab of solid rock that makes up the Earth's lithosphere and is involved in tectonic processes.