Plate Motion: Plate Boundaries

Front

What is a mid-ocean ridge?

Back

A mid-ocean ridge is an underwater mountain range formed by plate tectonics, where magma rises to create new crust as tectonic plates move apart.

Front

What happens at a transform boundary?

Back

At a transform boundary, two tectonic plates slide past each other horizontally, which can cause earthquakes.

Front

What is a divergent boundary?

Back

A divergent boundary is where two tectonic plates move away from each other, often creating rifts and ocean ridges.

Front

What geological features can form from divergent plate movement?

Back

Divergent plate movement can create rifts and ocean ridges.

Front

What is a rift?

Back

A rift is a linear zone where the Earth's crust is being pulled apart, often leading to the formation of new oceanic crust.

Front

What is a convergent boundary?

Back

A convergent boundary is where two tectonic plates move toward each other, which can lead to subduction or mountain formation.

Front

What occurs at a subduction zone?

Back

At a subduction zone, one tectonic plate is forced under another, leading to volcanic activity and the formation of deep ocean trenches.

Front

How did Madagascar form?

Back

Madagascar formed as a result of rifting, where the land was pulled apart, creating an island.

Front

What is the definition of tectonic plates?

Back

Tectonic plates are large sections of the Earth's lithosphere that move and interact at their boundaries.

Front

What is the significance of plate boundaries?

Back

Plate boundaries are significant because they are the sites of geological activity, including earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and mountain building.