Flashcard: Plate Tectonics

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What is plate tectonics?

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Plate tectonics is the scientific theory that describes the large-scale movement of Earth's lithosphere, which is divided into tectonic plates that float on the semi-fluid asthenosphere.

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What causes ocean basin formation?

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Ocean basins are formed primarily through seafloor spreading at divergent boundaries, where tectonic plates move apart and new crust is created.

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What are divergent boundaries?

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Divergent boundaries are regions where two tectonic plates move away from each other, leading to the formation of new crust, often seen at mid-ocean ridges.

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What are convergent boundaries?

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Convergent boundaries are areas where two tectonic plates collide, which can lead to the formation of mountains, deep ocean trenches, and volcanic activity.

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What is a transform boundary?

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A transform boundary is a type of fault where two tectonic plates slide past one another horizontally, causing earthquakes.

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What is seafloor spreading?

Back

Seafloor spreading is the process by which new oceanic crust is created at mid-ocean ridges as tectonic plates pull apart.

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What are oceanic trenches?

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Oceanic trenches are deep, narrow depressions in the ocean floor formed at convergent boundaries where one tectonic plate is subducted beneath another.

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What is subduction?

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Subduction is the process by which one tectonic plate moves under another and sinks into the mantle, often leading to volcanic activity.

Front

What geological features are formed at convergent boundaries?

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Geological features formed at convergent boundaries include mountains, volcanic arcs, and oceanic trenches.

Front

What is a mid-ocean ridge?

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A mid-ocean ridge is an underwater mountain range formed by the upwelling of magma at divergent boundaries.