Plate Tectonics

Front

What is Plate Tectonics?

Back

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

Front

What are tectonic plates?

Back

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

Front

What is a convergent boundary?

Back

A type of plate boundary where two plates move towards each other, often causing one plate to be forced beneath the other.

Front

What is a divergent boundary?

Back

A type of plate boundary where two plates move away from each other, leading to the formation of new crust.

Front

What is a transform boundary?

Back

A type of plate boundary where two plates slide past each other horizontally.

Front

What geologic feature is commonly found at a divergent boundary?

Back

Mid-Ocean Ridge.

Front

What is a rift valley?

Back

A lowland region formed by the divergence of tectonic plates, often found on land.

Front

What happens at a convergent boundary?

Back

Plates collide, which can lead to mountain formation, earthquakes, and volcanic activity.

Front

What is subduction?

Back

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

Front

What is sea-floor spreading?

Back

The process by which new oceanic crust is created at mid-ocean ridges as tectonic plates pull apart.