Plate Tectonics

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 a Mid-Ocean Ridge?

Back

An underwater mountain range formed by plate tectonics, where new oceanic crust is created through volcanic activity.

Front

Define Seafloor Spreading.

Back

The process by which new oceanic crust forms at mid-ocean ridges and older crust moves away from the ridge.

Front

What is a Convergent Plate Boundary?

Back

A type of plate boundary where two tectonic plates move toward each other, often resulting in mountain formation or subduction.

Front

What is a Divergent Plate Boundary?

Back

A type of plate boundary where two tectonic plates move apart, leading to the formation of new crust, typically at mid-ocean ridges.

Front

What is a Transform Plate Boundary?

Back

A type of plate boundary where two tectonic plates slide past each other horizontally, often causing earthquakes.

Front

What is Continental Drift?

Back

The gradual movement of continents across the Earth's surface through geological time.

Front

What is Pangea?

Back

A supercontinent that existed during the late Paleozoic and early Mesozoic eras, where all continents were joined together.

Front

What geological feature is formed at a convergent boundary?

Back

Mountain ranges, deep ocean trenches, and volcanic arcs.

Front

What is the Ring of Fire?

Back

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