Plate Tectonics

Front

What is Plate Tectonics?

Back

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

Front

What are the two types of crust?

Back

Continental crust and oceanic crust.

Front

What is a divergent plate boundary?

Back

A boundary where two tectonic plates move away from each other, often creating rift valleys or mid-ocean ridges.

Front

What is a convergent plate boundary?

Back

A boundary where two tectonic plates collide, leading to mountain formation, earthquakes, or volcanic activity.

Front

What is a transform plate boundary?

Back

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

Front

What is the Great Rift Valley?

Back

A large rift valley in East Africa formed by divergent tectonic activity.

Front

What is the Mid-Ocean Ridge?

Back

An underwater mountain range formed by divergent tectonic plates, where new oceanic crust is created.

Front

What are convection currents?

Back

The movement of fluid caused by differences in temperature and density, occurring in the Earth's mantle.

Front

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

Back

Fossils of plants and animals found on different continents, the fit of continental coastlines, and similar rock formations across continents.

Front

What is the mantle?

Back

The layer of the Earth between the crust and the core, where convection currents occur.