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 that float on the semi-fluid asthenosphere.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-3

Front

What are tectonic plate boundaries?

Back

The edges where two tectonic plates meet, which can be classified as convergent, divergent, or transform boundaries.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-3

Front

Define convergent boundary.

Back

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

Front

Define divergent boundary.

Back

A tectonic plate boundary where two plates move away from each other, leading to the formation of new crust as magma rises to the surface.

Front

Define transform boundary.

Back

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

Front

What is a rift valley?

Back

A lowland region formed by the divergence of tectonic plates, characterized by steep walls and a central block that has dropped down.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-2

Front

What is a hot spot?

Back

An area in the mantle where heat rises, creating volcanic activity, often located away from tectonic plate boundaries.

Front

Give an example of a convergent boundary.

Back

The boundary between the Nazca Plate and the South American Plate, where subduction occurs.

Tags

NGSS.HS-ESS1-5

NGSS.HS-ESS2-1

Front

Give an example of a divergent boundary.

Back

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

Front

Give an example of a transform boundary.

Back

The San Andreas Fault in California, where the Pacific Plate and North American Plate slide past each other.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS3-2