Plate Tectonics

Front

What are subduction zones?

Back

Subduction zones are areas where one tectonic plate is being forced under another plate, typically occurring at oceanic-continental boundaries.

Front

What does the theory of Continental Drift propose?

Back

The theory of Continental Drift suggests that continents were once part of a single landmass and have drifted apart over time.

Front

What are tectonic plates made of?

Back

Tectonic plates are composed of the continental and oceanic lithosphere.

Front

What is the primary driving force behind tectonic plate movement?

Back

The primary driving force behind tectonic plate movement is convection currents in the mantle.

Front

Where does seafloor spreading occur?

Back

Seafloor spreading occurs at mid-ocean ridges.

Front

What are the three main types of plate boundaries?

Back

The three main types of plate boundaries are convergent, divergent, and transform boundaries.

Front

What happens at convergent boundaries?

Back

At convergent boundaries, tectonic plates move towards each other, often causing one plate to subduct beneath the other.

Front

What is a divergent boundary?

Back

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

Front

What is a transform boundary?

Back

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

Front

What is the lithosphere?

Back

The lithosphere is the rigid outer layer of the Earth, consisting of the crust and the uppermost part of the mantle.