Plate Boundaries

Front

What are plate boundaries?

Back

Plate boundaries are the edges where two tectonic plates meet. They can be classified into three main types: convergent, divergent, and transform boundaries.

Front

What happens at a convergent boundary?

Back

At a convergent boundary, two tectonic plates collide, which can lead to the formation of mountains, earthquakes, and volcanic activity.

Front

What is a divergent boundary?

Back

A divergent boundary is where two tectonic plates move away from each other, leading to the creation of new crust, often seen at mid-ocean ridges.

Front

What is seafloor spreading?

Back

Seafloor spreading is the process that occurs at divergent oceanic boundaries where new oceanic crust is formed as magma rises to the surface.

Front

What type of stress occurs at divergent boundaries?

Back

Tension stress occurs at divergent boundaries, pulling rocks apart.

Front

What is a transform boundary?

Back

A transform boundary is where two tectonic plates slide past one another, often causing earthquakes.

Front

What geological feature is commonly associated with transform boundaries?

Back

Earthquakes are commonly associated with transform boundaries due to the friction between sliding plates.

Front

What evidence did Wegener use to support his theory of continental drift?

Back

Wegener used evidence such as the fit/shape of continents, geological similarities, fossil records, and climate evidence.

Front

What is subduction?

Back

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

Front

What is compression stress?

Back

Compression stress is the type of stress that pushes rocks together, commonly found at convergent boundaries.