Plate Tectonics Review

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 is Continental Drift?

Back

The hypothesis that continents have moved over geological time and were once joined together in a supercontinent called Pangea.

Front

What is Pangea?

Back

A supercontinent that existed during the late Paleozoic and early Mesozoic eras, where all the Earth's landmasses were joined together.

Front

What evidence supports the theory of Continental Drift?

Back

Fossil evidence, matching geological formations, and the fit of continental coastlines.

Front

What are the three types of plate boundaries?

Back

1. Convergent: plates move towards each other. 2. Divergent: plates move apart. 3. Transform: plates slide past each other.

Front

What happens at a Convergent Boundary?

Back

Plates collide, which can cause mountain ranges to form or lead to subduction, where one plate is forced under another.

Front

What is a Divergent Boundary?

Back

A tectonic plate boundary where two plates move away from each other, often creating new oceanic crust.

Front

What is a Transform Boundary?

Back

A boundary where two tectonic plates slide past one another, causing earthquakes.

Front

What is Subduction?

Back

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

Front

What is Seafloor Spreading?

Back

The process by which new oceanic crust is formed at mid-ocean ridges as tectonic plates pull apart.