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 float on the semi-fluid asthenosphere.

Front

What are the three main types of plate boundaries?

Back

Divergent, Convergent, and Transform boundaries.

Front

What occurs at a convergent boundary?

Back

Plates move towards each other, leading to events such as earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and mountain building.

Front

What is a divergent boundary?

Back

A boundary where tectonic plates pull apart from each other, often resulting in the formation of new crust.

Front

What is a transform boundary?

Back

A boundary where tectonic plates slide past each other horizontally, often causing earthquakes.

Front

What is subduction?

Back

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

Front

What is the inner core of the Earth?

Back

The innermost layer of the Earth, composed primarily of iron and nickel, and is solid due to immense pressure.

Front

What is the outer core?

Back

The layer of the Earth between the mantle and the inner core, composed of liquid iron and nickel.

Front

How do scientists study the Earth's interior?

Back

By analyzing seismic waves generated by earthquakes, which provide information about the different layers of the Earth.

Front

What happens to temperature, pressure, and density as you go deeper into the Earth?

Back

Temperature, pressure, and density all increase as you move from the crust to the inner core.