lithosphere

Front

What is the lithosphere?

Back

The lithosphere is the rigid outer layer of the Earth, consisting of the crust and the upper mantle, which is involved in tectonic activity.

Front

What are tectonic plates?

Back

Tectonic plates are large sections of the lithosphere that move and interact at their boundaries, causing geological activity such as earthquakes and volcanic eruptions.

Front

What is a hot spot?

Back

A hot spot is a location on the Earth's surface that has experienced active volcanism for a long period, often resulting in the formation of islands, like the Hawaiian Islands.

Front

What occurs at a divergent boundary?

Back

At a divergent boundary, tectonic plates move apart from each other, leading to the creation of new crust as magma rises to the surface.

Front

What is weathering?

Back

Weathering is the process of breaking down rocks and minerals into smaller pieces through physical, chemical, or biological means.

Front

What is erosion?

Back

Erosion is the process by which soil and rock are removed from one location and transported to another, often by wind, water, or ice.

Front

What is a transform plate boundary?

Back

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

Front

What is subduction?

Back

Subduction is the process where one tectonic plate moves under another and sinks into the mantle, often leading to volcanic activity.

Front

What is the role of carbon dioxide in global warming?

Back

Carbon dioxide is a greenhouse gas that traps heat in the atmosphere, contributing to the greenhouse effect and global warming.

Front

What is the difference between weathering and erosion?

Back

Weathering is the breakdown of rocks, while erosion is the movement of those broken materials from one place to another.