Plate Tectonics Anchor Time assignment

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 that float on the semi-fluid asthenosphere.

Front

What causes tectonic plates to move?

Back

Convection currents in the mantle caused by the heat from the Earth's core.

Front

Define convection in the context of plate tectonics.

Back

A process where a warm fluid expands, becomes less dense, and rises, while cooler, denser fluid sinks, creating a cycle that drives plate movement.

Front

What are tectonic plates?

Back

Large, rigid pieces of the Earth's lithosphere that move and interact at their boundaries.

Front

What is the lithosphere?

Back

The outer layer of the Earth, consisting of the crust and the upper mantle, which is rigid and brittle.

Front

What is the asthenosphere?

Back

The semi-fluid layer of the mantle beneath the lithosphere that allows tectonic plates to move.

Front

What is a divergent boundary?

Back

A tectonic plate boundary where two plates move away from each other, often resulting in the formation of new crust.

Front

What is a convergent boundary?

Back

A tectonic plate boundary where two plates collide, leading to subduction or mountain formation.

Front

What is a transform boundary?

Back

A tectonic plate boundary where two plates slide past each other horizontally, causing earthquakes.

Front

What is subduction?

Back

The process where one tectonic plate is forced under another, often leading to volcanic activity.