Packet Check Convection in the Mantle

Front

What is continental drift?

Back

Continental drift is the theory that continents move across the Earth's surface over geological time due to tectonic forces.

Front

How do mountain ranges provide evidence for continental drift?

Back

Mountain ranges on different continents have rocks that are the same composition and age, indicating they were once connected.

Front

What is a fluid in scientific terms?

Back

A fluid is a substance that can flow, which includes both liquids and gases.

Front

Describe the composition of the Earth's mantle.

Back

The mantle is composed of soft rock that can flow slowly over time.

Front

How do fossils support the theory of continental drift?

Back

Fossils of tropical plants found in Antarctica suggest that the continent was once in a warmer climate and has since moved.

Front

What was Alfred Wegener's contribution to geology?

Back

Alfred Wegener proposed the theory of continental drift, suggesting that continents were once joined and have since drifted apart.

Front

Why was Wegener's theory initially rejected by scientists?

Back

Wegener's theory was rejected because he could not explain the mechanism that caused the continents to move.

Front

What role do tectonic plates play in continental drift?

Back

Tectonic plates are large sections of the Earth's crust that move and interact, causing continents to drift.

Front

What is the significance of matching geological features on different continents?

Back

Matching geological features, such as mountain ranges and rock types, provide evidence that continents were once connected.

Front

How does convection in the mantle contribute to plate tectonics?

Back

Convection currents in the mantle create movement that drives the tectonic plates on the Earth's surface.