Plate Tectonics

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What is Plate Tectonics?

Back

The theory that explains the structure and movement of Earth's lithosphere, which is divided into tectonic plates that float on the semi-fluid asthenosphere.

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What is a Divergent Boundary?

Back

A tectonic plate boundary where two plates move away from each other, often resulting in the formation of new oceanic crust, such as at a mid-ocean ridge.

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What is a Convergent Boundary?

Back

A tectonic plate boundary where two plates collide, leading to subduction or mountain building.

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What is a Transform Boundary?

Back

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

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What is the Mid-Ocean Ridge?

Back

An underwater mountain range formed by the upwelling of magma at divergent boundaries.

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What is the Ring of Fire?

Back

A horseshoe-shaped zone in the Pacific Ocean basin known for its high volcanic and seismic activity.

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What causes earthquakes?

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Earthquakes are caused by the sudden release of energy in the Earth's crust due to the movement of tectonic plates.

Front

What is the Asthenosphere?

Back

The semi-fluid layer of the mantle beneath the lithosphere, allowing tectonic plates to move.

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What is Subduction?

Back

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

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What is a Rift Valley?

Back

A lowland region formed by the divergence of tectonic plates, often found at divergent boundaries.