Plate Tectonics Flashcard

Front

What is plate tectonics?

Back

Plate tectonics is the scientific theory that describes the large-scale movements of Earth's lithosphere, which is divided into tectonic plates that float on the semi-fluid asthenosphere beneath.

Front

What are the three main types of plate boundaries?

Back

The three main types of plate boundaries are divergent (plates move apart), convergent (plates move towards each other), and transform (plates slide past each other).

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What is a fault?

Back

A fault is a fracture or zone of fractures between two blocks of rock, which can cause earthquakes when the blocks move.

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What is the San Andreas Fault?

Back

The San Andreas Fault is a major transform fault located in California, known for its significant seismic activity.

Front

What are convection currents?

Back

Convection currents are the circular movements of fluid caused by the heating and cooling of the fluid, which in the Earth's mantle, drive the movement of tectonic plates.

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What is the composition of oceanic plates?

Back

Oceanic plates are primarily composed of basalt, a dense volcanic rock.

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What is the difference between continental and oceanic plates?

Back

Continental plates are thicker and primarily composed of granite, while oceanic plates are thinner and composed mainly of basalt.

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What is subduction?

Back

Subduction is the process where one tectonic plate moves under another and sinks into the mantle, often causing volcanic activity.

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What is a volcanic arc?

Back

A volcanic arc is a chain of volcanoes formed above a subducting plate, typically found at convergent boundaries.

Front

What is an earthquake?

Back

An earthquake is the shaking of the surface of the Earth resulting from a sudden release of energy in the Earth's lithosphere.