Unit 6.2: Effects of Plate Tectonics

Front

What is an earthquake?

Back

A movement or trembling of the ground caused by a sudden release of energy when rocks along a fault move.

Front

What is a hotspot?

Back

A volcanically active area of Earth's surface, commonly far from a tectonic plate boundary.

Front

What is a mountain?

Back

An area of significantly increased elevation on Earth's surface, usually rising to a summit.

Front

What is an ocean basin?

Back

The area of Earth that is covered by oceans.

Front

What are the possible outcomes of tectonic plate interactions?

Back

Earthquakes and volcanic eruptions can occur when plates slide past each other, mountain ranges can form from hotspots, and oceanic trenches can form when one plate is forced under another.

Front

What causes earthquakes?

Back

Earthquakes are caused by the sudden release of energy in the Earth's crust due to the movement of tectonic plates.

Front

What is a tectonic plate?

Back

A large, rigid piece of the Earth's lithosphere that moves and interacts with other plates.

Front

What is a fault?

Back

A fracture or zone of fractures between two blocks of rock, which can cause earthquakes.

Front

What is a volcano?

Back

An opening in the Earth's crust through which molten lava, ash, and gases are expelled.

Front

What is the Ring of Fire?

Back

A major area in the Pacific Ocean where a large number of earthquakes and volcanic eruptions occur due to tectonic plate boundaries.