Plate Tectonics Review

Front

What is Plate Tectonics?

Back

The theory that explains the movement of the Earth's lithosphere, which is divided into tectonic plates.

Front

What causes convection currents in the mantle?

Back

Heat from the Earth's core causes the mantle material to heat up, become less dense, and rise.

Front

What happens to less dense materials in a convection current?

Back

They rise to the surface.

Front

What happens to more dense materials in a convection current?

Back

They sink down.

Front

What is the main force that drives the movement of tectonic plates?

Back

Convection currents in the mantle.

Front

How do temperature changes affect particle movement?

Back

Particles move faster in hot substances and slower in cold substances.

Front

What is the relationship between density and temperature in convection currents?

Back

Hotter substances are less dense and rise, while cooler substances are more dense and sink.

Front

What is the role of the mantle in plate tectonics?

Back

The mantle's convection currents help move the tectonic plates on the Earth's surface.

Front

What happens when molten rock cools in the mantle?

Back

It becomes more dense and sinks.

Front

What is a tectonic plate?

Back

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