Plate Tectonics

Front

What is Plate Tectonics?

Back

The theory that explains the movement of the Earth's lithosphere, which is divided into tectonic plates that float on the semi-fluid asthenosphere.

Front

What are tectonic plates?

Back

Large pieces of the Earth's lithosphere that move and interact with each other, causing geological activity.

Front

What happens at a convergent boundary?

Back

Two tectonic plates collide, leading to the formation of mountains, earthquakes, and volcanic activity.

Front

What is a divergent boundary?

Back

A tectonic plate boundary where two plates move away from each other, leading to the formation of rift valleys and mid-ocean ridges.

Front

What is a transform boundary?

Back

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

Front

How do mountains form?

Back

Mountains typically form when continents collide and fold up on each other at convergent boundaries.

Front

What is sea-floor spreading?

Back

The process by which new oceanic crust is created at divergent boundaries as tectonic plates move apart.

Front

What is subduction?

Back

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

Front

What are the three types of plate boundaries?

Back

Convergent, divergent, and transform boundaries.

Front

What geological features are formed at divergent boundaries?

Back

Rift valleys and mid-ocean ridges.