Earth's layers and plate tectonics

Front

What is the lithosphere?

Back

The lithosphere is the rigid outer layer of the Earth, consisting of the crust and the upper part of the mantle.

Front

What are tectonic plates?

Back

Tectonic plates are large sections of the lithosphere that move and interact with one another.

Front

What happens at a divergent plate boundary?

Back

At a divergent plate boundary, tectonic plates move away from each other, creating new crust.

Front

What is a convergent plate boundary?

Back

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

Front

What geological feature is formed at a convergent boundary?

Back

Mountains, such as the Himalayan Mountains, are formed at convergent boundaries.

Front

What is a transform boundary?

Back

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

Front

What is the role of the mantle in plate tectonics?

Back

The mantle provides the heat and convection currents that drive the movement of tectonic plates.

Front

What is the difference between the crust and the mantle?

Back

The crust is the thin, outermost layer of the Earth, while the mantle is a thicker layer beneath the crust composed of semi-solid rock.

Front

What evidence supports the theory of plate tectonics?

Back

Evidence includes the fit of continental coastlines, fossil distribution, and the location of earthquakes and volcanoes.

Front

What is subduction?

Back

Subduction is the process where one tectonic plate is forced under another, often leading to volcanic activity.