Plate Tectonic unit review

Front

What is Plate Tectonics?

Back

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

Front

What are tectonic plates?

Back

Large sections of the Earth's lithosphere that move and interact with each other.

Front

What is continental drift?

Back

The gradual movement of continents across the Earth's surface over geological time.

Front

What evidence supports the theory of continental drift?

Back

Fossil evidence, similar rock formations, and the fit of continental coastlines.

Front

What is conduction?

Back

The transfer of heat through direct contact between materials.

Front

What is convection?

Back

The transfer of heat through the movement of fluids (liquids and gases).

Front

What is radiation?

Back

The transfer of energy through empty space without the need for direct contact.

Front

What role do fossils play in understanding plate tectonics?

Back

Fossils provide evidence of how continents were once connected and the types of organisms that lived in different regions.

Front

What is the significance of similar rock formations on different continents?

Back

They suggest that continents were once joined and have since drifted apart.

Front

What is the difference between oceanic and continental plates?

Back

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