Plate Tectonics & Continental Drift

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.

Front

What is Continental Drift?

Back

The hypothesis that continents have moved over geological time and were once joined together in a single landmass called Pangaea.

Front

What is a tectonic plate?

Back

A large, rigid piece of the Earth's lithosphere that moves and interacts with other plates.

Front

What is the lithosphere?

Back

The outer layer of the Earth, consisting of the crust and the upper mantle, which is rigid and brittle.

Front

What is the asthenosphere?

Back

The semi-fluid layer of the mantle beneath the lithosphere that allows tectonic plates to move.

Front

What is seafloor spreading?

Back

The process by which new oceanic crust is formed at mid-ocean ridges and older crust is pushed away from the ridge.

Front

What evidence supports the theory of Continental Drift?

Back

Similar fossils found on different continents, matching geological formations, and the fit of continental coastlines.

Front

What is subduction?

Back

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

Front

What are convergent boundaries?

Back

Boundaries where two tectonic plates collide, often forming mountains or causing subduction.

Front

What are divergent boundaries?

Back

Boundaries where two tectonic plates move apart, leading to the formation of new crust.