The Continental Drift Theory & Plate Tectonics

Front

What is the Continental Drift Theory?

Back

The Continental Drift Theory is the idea that continents have moved over geological time from a single supercontinent called Pangaea to their current locations.

Front

Who proposed the Continental Drift Theory?

Back

Alfred Wegener proposed the Continental Drift Theory in 1912.

Front

What was the initial reaction of scientists to the Continental Drift Theory?

Back

Most scientists reacted with skepticism.

Front

Why was the Continental Drift Theory not well received initially?

Back

Wegener could not explain what caused the continents to move.

Front

What is plate tectonics?

Back

Plate tectonics is the scientific theory that describes the large-scale movements of Earth's lithosphere, which is divided into tectonic plates.

Front

What is seafloor spreading?

Back

Seafloor spreading is the process by which new oceanic crust is formed at mid-ocean ridges as magma rises to the surface.

Front

At what type of boundary does seafloor spreading occur?

Back

Seafloor spreading occurs at divergent boundaries.

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What type of heat transfer occurs in the mantle due to molten magma?

Back

Convection is the type of heat transfer that occurs in the mantle due to molten magma rising, cooling, and falling.

Front

What is a convergent boundary?

Back

A convergent boundary is where two tectonic plates move towards each other, often causing one plate to be forced beneath the other.

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What is a transform boundary?

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A transform boundary is where two tectonic plates slide past each other horizontally.