Unit 5: Investigating Plate Tectonics

Front

What is a mid-ocean ridge?

Back

A mid-ocean ridge is an underwater mountain range formed by plate tectonics, where two tectonic plates are moving apart.

Front

What happens at a transform boundary?

Back

At a transform boundary, tectonic plates slide past each other, which can cause earthquakes.

Front

What is the result of oceanic plates colliding with continental plates?

Back

The oceanic plate is driven under the continental plate because it is denser.

Front

What is a tectonic plate?

Back

A tectonic plate is a large slab of solid rock that makes up the Earth's lithosphere and moves over the semi-fluid asthenosphere.

Front

What is the process of subduction?

Back

Subduction is the process where one tectonic plate moves under another plate and sinks into the mantle.

Front

What is a rift valley?

Back

A rift valley is a lowland region formed by the divergence of tectonic plates, often characterized by steep walls.

Front

What is the significance of the Mid-Atlantic Ridge?

Back

The Mid-Atlantic Ridge is a divergent boundary where new oceanic crust is formed, contributing to the expansion of the Atlantic Ocean.

Front

What are convection currents?

Back

Convection currents are the movement of fluid caused by differences in temperature and density, driving plate tectonics.

Front

What is a volcanic eruption?

Back

A volcanic eruption is the release of magma, gas, and ash from a volcano, often occurring at tectonic plate boundaries.

Front

What is the difference between oceanic and continental plates?

Back

Oceanic plates are denser and thinner than continental plates, which are thicker and less dense.