Plate Tectonics

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What is the theory of plate tectonics?

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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.

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What are the three main types of plate boundaries?

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

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What is a divergent boundary?

Back

A divergent boundary is where two tectonic plates move away from each other, often resulting in the formation of new crust, such as mid-ocean ridges.

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What is a convergent boundary?

Back

A convergent boundary is where two tectonic plates move towards each other, leading to subduction or mountain building.

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What is a transform boundary?

Back

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

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What evidence supports the theory of plate tectonics?

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Evidence includes the fit of continental coastlines, fossil distribution, geological similarities across continents, and the presence of mid-ocean ridges.

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Who proposed the hypothesis of continental drift?

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Alfred Wegener proposed the hypothesis of continental drift.

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What is continental drift?

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Continental drift is the hypothesis that continents have moved over geological time and were once joined together in a supercontinent.

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What is subduction?

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Subduction is the process where one tectonic plate moves under another and sinks into the mantle.

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What is the significance of mid-ocean ridges?

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Mid-ocean ridges are significant as they are sites of new oceanic crust formation and are associated with divergent boundaries.