Plate Tectonics - Continental Drift

Front

What is Plate Tectonics?

Back

The theory that explains the structure and movement of Earth's lithosphere, which is divided into tectonic plates.

Front

What is Continental Drift?

Back

The hypothesis that continents have moved over geological time and were once joined together as a single landmass.

Front

What are the three main types of plate boundaries?

Back

1. Convergent, 2. Divergent, 3. Transform.

Front

What happens at a Convergent Boundary?

Back

Two tectonic plates push against each other, often causing one plate to be forced below the other, leading to mountain formation or earthquakes.

Front

What happens at a Divergent Boundary?

Back

Two tectonic plates move away from each other, creating new crust as magma rises to the surface.

Front

What happens at a Transform Boundary?

Back

Two tectonic plates slide past each other horizontally, which can cause earthquakes.

Front

Who proposed the theory of Continental Drift?

Back

Alfred Wegener.

Front

What is convection in the context of plate tectonics?

Back

The process by which heat from the Earth's interior causes the movement of molten rock in the mantle, driving the movement of tectonic plates.

Front

What is subduction?

Back

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

Front

What is the San Andreas Fault?

Back

A transform fault in California that is known for its seismic activity and earthquakes.