8th Science Plate Tectonics

Front

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.

Front

What are the three main types of tectonic plate boundaries?

Back

Convergent, Divergent, and Transform boundaries.

Front

What occurs at a convergent plate boundary?

Back

Plates move towards each other, often causing uplift, earthquakes, and the formation of mountains.

Front

What occurs at a divergent plate boundary?

Back

Plates move apart from each other, leading to the formation of new crust, often seen at mid-ocean ridges.

Front

What occurs at a transform plate boundary?

Back

Plates slide past each other horizontally, causing earthquakes.

Front

What is a mid-ocean ridge?

Back

An underwater mountain range formed by plate tectonics, where new oceanic crust is created.

Front

What is subduction?

Back

The process where one tectonic plate moves under another and sinks into the mantle, often leading to volcanic activity.

Front

What is the role of convection currents in the mantle?

Back

Convection currents in the mantle drive the movement of tectonic plates by transferring heat from the Earth's interior.

Front

What is the evidence for plate tectonics?

Back

Fossil distribution, continental fit, geological formations, and seismic activity support the theory of plate tectonics.

Front

What is a tectonic plate?

Back

A large, rigid piece of the Earth's lithosphere that moves and interacts with other plates.