Plate Tectonics APES

Front

What is a Divergent Plate Boundary?

Back

A divergent plate boundary is where two tectonic plates move away from each other, leading to the formation of new crust, often seen at mid-ocean ridges.

Front

What occurs when stress overcomes a locked fault?

Back

When stress overcomes a locked fault, it results in an earthquake, releasing stored energy.

Front

What are Mid-Ocean Ridges?

Back

Mid-ocean ridges are underwater mountain ranges formed by sea floor spreading at divergent plate boundaries.

Front

What is a Transform Plate Boundary?

Back

A transform plate boundary is where two tectonic plates slide past each other horizontally, often causing earthquakes.

Front

What geological features are created at Convergent Plate Boundaries?

Back

Convergent plate boundaries can create mountains, island arcs, earthquakes, and volcanoes.

Front

Define Sea Floor Spreading.

Back

Sea floor spreading is the process by which new oceanic crust is formed at mid-ocean ridges as tectonic plates move apart.

Front

What is Subduction?

Back

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

Front

What are Rift Valleys?

Back

Rift valleys are low-lying areas formed by the divergence of tectonic plates, often filled with water.

Front

What is the significance of the Ring of Fire?

Back

The Ring of Fire is a major area in the basin of the Pacific Ocean where many earthquakes and volcanic eruptions occur due to tectonic plate movements.

Front

What causes earthquakes?

Back

Earthquakes are caused by the sudden release of energy in the Earth's crust, often due to tectonic plate movements.