BrainPOP: Plate Tectonics

Front

What is the core of the Earth?

Back

The core is the innermost layer of the Earth, primarily composed of iron and nickel, and is where Earth's heat energy is most concentrated.

Front

What are tectonic plates?

Back

Tectonic plates are large sections of the Earth's lithosphere that move and interact with each other, causing geological activity such as earthquakes and volcanic eruptions.

Front

What causes tectonic plates to move?

Back

Tectonic plates are constantly moving due to convection currents in the mantle, which are powered by heat from the Earth's core.

Front

What is the mantle?

Back

The mantle is the layer of the Earth located between the crust and the core, composed of semi-solid rock that flows slowly over time.

Front

What is the lithosphere?

Back

The lithosphere is the rigid outer layer of the Earth, consisting of the crust and the uppermost part of the mantle.

Front

What is convection current?

Back

Convection currents are the circular movements of fluid (like molten rock in the mantle) caused by the heat from the core, which drives the movement of tectonic plates.

Front

What is the crust?

Back

The crust is the outermost layer of the Earth, where we live, and is made up of solid rock and soil.

Front

What is the relationship between earthquakes and tectonic plates?

Back

Earthquakes occur when tectonic plates move and interact, causing stress to build up and eventually release.

Front

What is the significance of the Earth's landmasses?

Back

Earth's landmasses are the upper part of the crust and are formed by the movement and interaction of tectonic plates.

Front

How do tectonic plates affect the Earth's surface?

Back

Tectonic plates shape the Earth's surface by creating mountains, valleys, and causing earthquakes and volcanic eruptions.