Plate Tectonics

Front

What is a convergent plate boundary?

Back

A convergent plate boundary is where two tectonic plates move towards each other, often causing one plate to be forced beneath the other, leading to subduction.

Front

What type of boundary is the San Andreas Fault?

Back

The San Andreas Fault is a transform boundary, where two tectonic plates slide past each other horizontally.

Front

What is a fault in geology?

Back

A fault is a fracture or zone of fractures between two blocks of rock, which can occur due to the movement of tectonic plates.

Front

What is the Theory of Continental Drift?

Back

The Theory of Continental Drift proposes that continents were once part of a single landmass called Pangaea, which broke apart and drifted to their current locations.

Front

What happens at a divergent plate boundary?

Back

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

Front

What is subduction?

Back

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

Front

What are tectonic plates?

Back

Tectonic plates are large, rigid pieces of the Earth's lithosphere that move and interact at their boundaries, causing geological activity.

Front

What is the difference between a transform boundary and a convergent boundary?

Back

A transform boundary is where plates slide past each other horizontally, while a convergent boundary is where plates move towards each other, often resulting in one plate being forced beneath another.

Front

What geological features are commonly formed at convergent boundaries?

Back

Common geological features at convergent boundaries include mountain ranges, deep ocean trenches, and volcanic arcs.

Front

What is the Ring of Fire?

Back

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