Unit 3 A: Earth Layers and Plate Tectonics

Front

What is the mantle?

Back

The mantle is a thick layer of rock between the Earth's crust and outer core, responsible for convection currents that help move tectonic plates.

Front

How do convection currents in the mantle affect tectonic plates?

Back

Convection currents caused by temperature differences in the mantle create movement that pushes tectonic plates, leading to geological activity.

Front

What is a divergent boundary?

Back

A divergent boundary is where two tectonic plates move apart from each other, often resulting in the formation of new crust and volcanic activity.

Front

What geological events occur at divergent boundaries?

Back

At divergent boundaries, tectonic plates pull apart, leading to the creation of new crust and volcanic eruptions.

Front

What is a tsunami?

Back

A tsunami is a giant wave caused by an underwater earthquake, typically with its epicenter on the ocean floor.

Front

Which layer of the Earth is the least dense?

Back

The crust is the least dense layer of the Earth.

Front

What is the outer core?

Back

The outer core is a liquid layer of iron and nickel that surrounds the inner core and is responsible for Earth's magnetic field.

Front

What is the inner core?

Back

The inner core is the solid, innermost layer of the Earth, composed mainly of iron and nickel.

Front

What is the role of the Earth's crust?

Back

The Earth's crust is the outermost layer, providing a solid surface for landforms and supporting life.

Front

What happens to ocean salinity during evaporation?

Back

Evaporation increases the salinity of ocean water as water vapor escapes, leaving salts behind.