GPMS Plate Tectonics Review

Front

What is an Ocean Ridge?

Back

An Ocean Ridge is an underwater mountain range formed by plate tectonics, where new oceanic crust is created through volcanic activity as tectonic plates pull apart.

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 older crust is pushed away, leading to the expansion of ocean basins.

Front

What causes tectonic plates to move?

Back

Tectonic plates move due to convection currents in the mantle, which are caused by the heat from the Earth's core.

Front

What is a Rift Valley?

Back

A Rift Valley is a lowland region formed by the divergence of tectonic plates, often characterized by steep walls and a central block that has dropped down.

Front

What is a Subduction Zone?

Back

A Subduction Zone is a region where one tectonic plate moves under another and sinks into the mantle, often leading to volcanic activity and earthquakes.

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What is a Convergent Boundary?

Back

A Convergent Boundary is a tectonic plate boundary where two plates collide, leading to subduction or mountain building.

Front

What is a Hot Spot?

Back

A Hot Spot is a location on the Earth's surface that has experienced active volcanism for a long period, often located away from tectonic plate boundaries.

Front

What is the role of Convection Currents in the mantle?

Back

Convection Currents in the mantle are the movement of molten rock that helps drive the motion of tectonic plates, causing them to shift and interact.

Front

What is Seismic Activity?

Back

Seismic Activity refers to the frequency and intensity of earthquakes in a given area, often associated with tectonic plate movements.

Front

What is a Transform Boundary?

Back

A Transform Boundary is a type of tectonic plate boundary where two plates slide past each other horizontally, causing earthquakes.