Plate Motion Chapter 3

Front

What is the Continental Drift Theory?

Back

The Continental Drift Theory explains how continents have moved over geological time and were once joined together in a single landmass called Pangaea.

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Front

What evidence supports the Continental Drift Theory?

Back

Fossils of similar plants and animals found on different continents and mountain ranges with similar rock types on different continents.

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Front

How fast do tectonic plates move?

Back

Tectonic plates move about 3-7 cm per year (about 2-5 inches).

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Front

What was the position of continents 200 million years ago?

Back

The continents were all together in one giant continent called Pangaea.

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What does the theory of continental drift explain?

Back

It explains how continents changed position and shape over time.

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Front

What are tectonic plates?

Back

Tectonic plates are large sections of the Earth's lithosphere that move and interact with each other.

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Front

What is Pangaea?

Back

Pangaea was a supercontinent that existed about 335 million years ago, where all continents were joined together.

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Front

What is the significance of fossil evidence in supporting continental drift?

Back

Fossil evidence shows that similar species existed on continents that are now separated by oceans, indicating they were once connected.

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Front

What role do ocean currents play in plate tectonics?

Back

Ocean currents can influence the movement of tectonic plates by affecting the heat distribution in the Earth's mantle.

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What is the lithosphere?

Back

The lithosphere is the rigid outer layer of the Earth, consisting of the crust and upper mantle.

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