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What is Continental Drift?

Back

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

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What is Plate Tectonics?

Back

The scientific theory that describes the large-scale movements of Earth's lithosphere, which is divided into tectonic plates.

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What is a Tectonic Plate?

Back

A massive, irregularly shaped slab of solid rock that makes up the Earth's lithosphere.

Front

What is Subduction?

Back

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

Front

What is a Strike-Slip Fault?

Back

A type of fault where two tectonic plates slide past each other horizontally.

Front

What evidence supports the theory of Continental Drift?

Back

Fossil distribution, geological similarities, and glacial scars found on different continents.

Front

What is Sea Floor Spreading?

Back

The process by which new oceanic crust is formed at mid-ocean ridges and older crust is pushed away.

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What is a Convergent Boundary?

Back

A tectonic plate boundary where two plates collide, often forming mountains or causing subduction.

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What is a Divergent Boundary?

Back

A tectonic plate boundary where two plates move away from each other, leading to the formation of new crust.

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.