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 the three main types of plate boundaries?

Back

1. Convergent Boundary 2. Divergent Boundary 3. Transform Boundary

Front

What happens at a Transform Boundary?

Back

Plates slide past each other, causing friction and often resulting in earthquakes.

Front

What is a Divergent Boundary?

Back

A boundary where two tectonic plates move away from each other, often creating new crust as magma rises to the surface.

Front

What landform is created at a Divergent Boundary?

Back

Rift Valley or mid-ocean ridges.

Front

What is a Convergent Boundary?

Back

A boundary where two tectonic plates collide, leading to one plate being forced below the other (subduction) or creating mountains.

Front

What landform is created when two continental plates collide?

Back

Mountains.

Front

What is subduction?

Back

The process where one tectonic plate moves under another and sinks into the mantle.

Front

Where are earthquakes most likely to occur?

Back

At plate boundaries.

Front

What is the San Andreas Fault?

Back

A major transform fault in California that marks the boundary between the Pacific Plate and the North American Plate.