Plate Tectonics

Front

What is Plate Tectonics?

Back

The theory that explains the structure and movement of Earth's outer layer (lithosphere) which is divided into tectonic plates.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-3

Front

What are tectonic plates?

Back

Large, rigid pieces of the Earth's lithosphere that move and interact with each other.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-3

Front

What is the lithosphere?

Back

The outer layer of the Earth, consisting of the crust and the upper mantle, which is solid and rigid.

Front

What is a convergent boundary?

Back

A type of tectonic boundary where two plates move towards each other, often causing mountains or earthquakes.

Front

What is a divergent boundary?

Back

A type of tectonic boundary where two plates move away from each other, often creating new crust.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-3

Front

What is a transform boundary?

Back

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

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-3

Front

What happens at a convergent boundary?

Back

Plates collide, which can lead to the formation of mountains, deep ocean trenches, and volcanic activity.

Tags

NGSS.HS-ESS1-5

NGSS.HS-ESS2-1

Front

What happens at a divergent boundary?

Back

Plates separate, allowing magma to rise and create new crust, often seen at mid-ocean ridges.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-3

Front

What is an earthquake?

Back

A sudden shaking of the ground caused by the movement of tectonic plates.

Tags

NGSS.HS-ESS1-5

NGSS.HS-ESS2-1

Front

What is a fault?

Back

A fracture in the Earth's crust along which movement has occurred.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS3-2