Continental Drift Theory

Front

What is the Continental Drift Theory?

Back

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

Front

What evidence supports the Continental Drift Theory?

Back

Evidence includes the fit of continental coastlines, fossil distribution, geological similarities, and glacial scars found in now-warm regions.

Front

What are tectonic plates?

Back

Tectonic plates are large sections of the Earth's lithosphere that move and interact with each other, causing geological activity such as earthquakes and volcanic eruptions.

Front

What is the lithosphere?

Back

The lithosphere is the rigid outer layer of the Earth, consisting of the crust and the upper mantle, which is broken into tectonic plates.

Front

What is a fossil?

Back

A fossil is the preserved remains or traces of ancient organisms, providing evidence for the history of life on Earth.

Front

What is the significance of glacial scars in understanding continental drift?

Back

Glacial scars indicate that continents like Africa were once located in colder regions, supporting the idea that they have moved over time.

Front

What is the asthenosphere?

Back

The asthenosphere is the semi-fluid layer of the upper mantle beneath the lithosphere, allowing tectonic plates to move.

Front

What role do fossils play in Wegener's Theory?

Back

Fossils provide evidence of how continents were once connected, as similar species are found on continents that are now separated.

Front

What is sea-floor spreading?

Back

Sea-floor spreading is the process by which new oceanic crust is formed at mid-ocean ridges and pushes tectonic plates apart.

Front

What is the core of the Earth?

Back

The core is the innermost layer of the Earth, composed mainly of iron and nickel, and is divided into a solid inner core and a liquid outer core.