Plate tectonics

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What is Plate Tectonics?

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The theory that Earth's outer layer is broken into large, slowly moving pieces called tectonic plates.

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NGSS.MS-ESS2-3

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What is a Divergent Boundary?

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A tectonic plate boundary where two plates move away from each other, often creating new crust.

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NGSS.MS-ESS2-3

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What is a Convergent Boundary?

Back

A tectonic plate boundary where two plates move towards each other, often causing one plate to be forced below the other.

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NGSS.MS-ESS2-2

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What is a Transform Boundary?

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

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What happens at a Convergent Boundary?

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Mountains can be formed, and one plate may subduct under another.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-2

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What is Subduction?

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The process where one tectonic plate moves under another and sinks into the mantle.

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NGSS.HS-ESS1-5

NGSS.HS-ESS2-1

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What is the significance of the Atlantic Ocean widening?

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The Atlantic Ocean gets about 3-5 centimeters wider each year due to the movement of tectonic plates.

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NGSS.MS-ESS2-2

NGSS.MS-ESS2-3

Front

What is the Plate Tectonic Theory?

Back

The scientific theory that explains how Earth's outer layer is divided into plates that move and interact.

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NGSS.MS-ESS2-1

NGSS.MS-ESS2-3

Front

What is an Earthquake?

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A sudden shaking of the ground caused by the movement of tectonic plates.

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NGSS.MS-ESS2-3

NGSS.MS-ESS3-2

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What is a Volcano?

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An opening in the Earth's crust where molten rock, ash, and gases can escape.

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NGSS.MS-ESS2-1