Plates Tectonics Review

Front

What is plate tectonics?

Back

The theory that explains the movement of the Earth's lithosphere, which is divided into tectonic plates that float on the semi-fluid asthenosphere.

Front

What are the two main types of tectonic plates?

Back

Continental plates and oceanic plates.

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.

Front

What is a transform plate boundary?

Back

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

Front

What is subduction?

Back

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

Front

What is the significance of the oceanic crust?

Back

The oceanic crust is denser than continental crust and is primarily composed of basalt.

Front

What is the significance of the continental crust?

Back

The continental crust is less dense than oceanic crust and is primarily composed of granite.

Front

What evidence supports the theory of plate tectonics?

Back

Fossil correlation, continental fit, and glacial striations.

Front

What is a fault?

Back

A fracture in the Earth's crust where blocks of rock have moved past each other.

Front

What is a divergent plate boundary?

Back

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