Plate Tectonics APES

Front

What is a convergent boundary?

Back

A convergent boundary is a tectonic plate boundary where two plates move toward each other and collide, often resulting in mountain formation, earthquakes, and volcanic activity.

Front

What is seafloor spreading?

Back

Seafloor spreading is the process by which new oceanic crust is formed as magma rises to the surface at mid-ocean ridges, causing the ocean floor to expand.

Front

What are mid-ocean ridges?

Back

Mid-ocean ridges are underwater mountain ranges formed by the upwelling of magma at divergent boundaries, where tectonic plates are moving apart.

Front

What geological features are created by divergent boundaries?

Back

Divergent boundaries can create rift valleys, mid-ocean ridges, volcanoes, and earthquakes.

Front

What is a transform boundary?

Back

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

Front

What is the primary result of transform boundaries?

Back

Transform boundaries mainly result in earthquakes due to the friction between sliding plates.

Front

What is subduction?

Back

Subduction is the process where one tectonic plate is forced under another, often leading to volcanic activity and the formation of deep ocean trenches.

Front

What are rift valleys?

Back

Rift valleys are low-lying areas that form when tectonic plates move apart, often associated with divergent boundaries.

Front

What is the relationship between tectonic plates and earthquakes?

Back

Earthquakes are often caused by the movement of tectonic plates at convergent, divergent, and transform boundaries.

Front

What is the significance of volcanic activity at plate boundaries?

Back

Volcanic activity at plate boundaries is significant as it can create new landforms, affect climate, and impact ecosystems.