Plate Tectonics

Front

What is plate tectonics?

Back

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

Front

What are the three main types of plate boundaries?

Back

Convergent, Divergent, and Transform boundaries.

Front

What occurs at a convergent boundary?

Back

Plates move towards each other, often causing one plate to be forced beneath another, leading to subduction.

Front

What is a divergent boundary?

Back

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

Front

What is a transform boundary?

Back

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

Front

What is an example of a convergent boundary?

Back

The boundary between the Pacific Plate and the North American Plate, where the Pacific Plate is subducting.

Front

What is an example of a divergent boundary?

Back

The Mid-Atlantic Ridge, where the Eurasian and North American plates are moving apart.

Front

What is an example of a transform boundary?

Back

The San Andreas Fault in California.

Front

Define normal fault movement.

Back

Occurs when the crust is extended, causing one block of rock to move down relative to another.

Front

Define reverse fault movement.

Back

Occurs when the crust is compressed, causing one block of rock to move up relative to another.