Chapter 9 - 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 are tectonic plates?

Back

Large sections of the Earth's lithosphere that move and interact with one another, causing geological phenomena such as earthquakes, volcanic activity, and mountain building.

Front

What is the force behind plate tectonics?

Back

Convection currents in the mantle, which are caused by the heat from the Earth's core.

Front

What is continental drift?

Back

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

Front

What evidence supports the theory of continental drift?

Back

Similar rock formations, fossil evidence, and glacial deposits found on different continents.

Front

What are convection currents?

Back

The circular movement of fluid caused by the heating and cooling of the material, which drives the movement of tectonic plates.

Front

What is a mid-ocean ridge?

Back

An underwater mountain range formed by plate tectonics, where new oceanic crust is created as tectonic plates pull apart.

Front

What is subduction?

Back

The process by which one tectonic plate moves under another plate and sinks into the mantle, often causing volcanic activity.

Front

What is a transform boundary?

Back

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

Front

What is the Ring of Fire?

Back

A major area in the basin of the Pacific Ocean where a large number of earthquakes and volcanic eruptions occur due to tectonic plate movements.