Plate Tectonics

Front

What is Plate Tectonics?

Back

The theory that explains the structure and movement of the Earth's lithosphere, which is divided into tectonic plates that move over the semi-fluid asthenosphere.

Front

What is a Transform Boundary?

Back

A type of plate boundary where two tectonic plates slide past each other horizontally, often causing earthquakes.

Front

What is a Convergent Boundary?

Back

A type of plate boundary where two plates collide, leading to mountain formation, earthquakes, and volcanic activity.

Front

What is a Divergent Boundary?

Back

A type of plate boundary where two tectonic plates move apart, leading to the formation of new crust, often seen at mid-ocean ridges.

Front

What is Continental Drift?

Back

The hypothesis that continents were once part of a single supercontinent and have since drifted apart over geological time.

Front

What causes Earthquakes?

Back

Earthquakes are caused by the sudden release of energy in the Earth's crust due to tectonic plate movements.

Front

What are Convection Currents?

Back

The movement of fluid caused by differences in temperature and density, which drives the movement of tectonic plates.

Front

What is the Ring of Fire?

Back

A major area in the basin of the Pacific Ocean where a large number of earthquakes and volcanic eruptions occur due to tectonic plate boundaries.

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.

Front

What is Subduction?

Back

The process by which one tectonic plate moves under another plate and sinks into the mantle, often causing volcanic activity.