Continental Drift

Front

What is Continental Drift?

Back

The theory that continents have moved over geological time and were once joined together in a single landmass called Pangea.

Front

Who proposed the theory of Continental Drift?

Back

Alfred Wegener.

Front

What is Pangea?

Back

A supercontinent that existed during the late Paleozoic and early Mesozoic eras, where all continents were joined together.

Front

What evidence did Wegener use to support his theory?

Back

Fossil evidence, geological similarities, and the fit of continental coastlines.

Front

Why was Wegener's theory initially rejected?

Back

He could not explain HOW the continents moved.

Front

What is the significance of the Atlantic Ocean in Continental Drift?

Back

Rocks and structures on both sides of the Atlantic Ocean are very similar, indicating they were once connected.

Front

True or False: The continents can be pieced together to form a single whole continent.

Back

True.

Front

What fossil evidence supports the idea of Continental Drift?

Back

Fossils from plants and animals are found on two different continents, suggesting they were once connected.

Front

Which two continents fit together most noticeably?

Back

South America and Africa.

Front

What is the role of tectonic plates in Continental Drift?

Back

Tectonic plates are large sections of the Earth's crust that move and can cause continents to drift.