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 happens at a convergent plate boundary?

Back

Two tectonic plates move towards each other, often causing one plate to subduct beneath the other, leading to volcanic activity and mountain formation.

Front

What is subduction?

Back

The process where one tectonic plate moves under another and sinks into the mantle.

Front

What is sea-floor spreading?

Back

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

Front

What are convection currents?

Back

The movement of fluid caused by differences in temperature and density, which drives the movement of tectonic plates.

Front

What is a divergent plate boundary?

Back

A boundary where two tectonic plates move away from each other, leading to the formation of new crust.

Front

What is a transform plate boundary?

Back

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

Front

What is the lithosphere?

Back

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

Front

What is the asthenosphere?

Back

The semi-fluid layer of the mantle beneath the lithosphere, allowing tectonic plates to move.

Front

What causes earthquakes?

Back

The sudden release of energy in the Earth's crust due to the movement of tectonic plates.