Geologic Processes

Front

What are tectonic plates?

Back

Tectonic plates are large sections of the Earth's lithosphere that move and interact with each other, causing geological activity such as earthquakes and volcanic eruptions.

Front

What is the Earth's crust?

Back

The Earth's crust is the outermost layer of the Earth, composed of solid rock and having the lowest density compared to other layers.

Front

What is a subduction zone?

Back

A subduction zone is an area where one tectonic plate is being forced under another, often leading to volcanic activity.

Front

What is the mantle?

Back

The mantle is the layer of the Earth located between the crust and the outer core, composed of semi-solid rock that flows slowly.

Front

What is the outer core?

Back

The outer core is the liquid layer of the Earth located beneath the mantle, composed mainly of iron and nickel, and is extremely hot.

Front

What is a volcanic eruption?

Back

A volcanic eruption is the release of magma, gas, and ash from a volcano, often occurring at tectonic plate boundaries.

Front

What is the difference between oceanic and continental plates?

Back

Oceanic plates are denser and thinner, located under oceans, while continental plates are thicker and less dense, forming the continents.

Front

What is a fault line?

Back

A fault line is a fracture or zone of fractures between two blocks of rock, where earthquakes often occur.

Front

What is the theory of plate tectonics?

Back

The theory of plate tectonics explains how the Earth's plates move and interact, leading to geological phenomena like earthquakes, mountains, and volcanoes.

Front

What is a transform boundary?

Back

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