Plate Tectonics Flashcard

Front

What is Plate Tectonics?

Back

The theory that explains the movement of the Earth's lithosphere, which is divided into tectonic plates that float on the semi-fluid asthenosphere.

Front

What are tectonic plates?

Back

Large sections of the Earth's lithosphere that move and interact with each other, causing geological activity.

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What is a subduction zone?

Back

A region where one tectonic plate moves under another and sinks into the mantle, often causing earthquakes and volcanic activity.

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What is Pangea?

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A supercontinent that existed around 200 million years ago, where all the continents were joined together.

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Who proposed the Theory of Plate Tectonics?

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Harry Hess, who contributed to the understanding of seafloor spreading.

Front

What happens at mid-ocean ridges?

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New oceanic crust is formed as tectonic plates pull apart, allowing magma to rise and solidify.

Front

What is the difference between oceanic and continental plates?

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Oceanic plates are denser and thinner than continental plates, which are thicker and less dense.

Front

What occurs when an oceanic plate collides with a continental plate?

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The oceanic plate is forced underneath the continental plate in a process called subduction.

Front

What is a stratovolcano?

Back

A type of volcano characterized by a steep profile and periodic explosive eruptions, often found at subduction zones.

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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.