Earth's Structures UNIT 3 Test Review

Front

What is a tectonic plate?

Back

A tectonic plate is a large, rigid piece of the Earth's lithosphere that moves and interacts with other plates, causing geological activity such as earthquakes and volcanic eruptions.

Front

What is the theory of plate tectonics?

Back

The theory of plate tectonics explains how the Earth's lithosphere is divided into tectonic plates that move over the semi-fluid asthenosphere, leading to geological phenomena.

Front

What is subduction?

Back

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

Front

What are convergent boundaries?

Back

Convergent boundaries are areas where two tectonic plates collide, leading to the formation of mountains, earthquakes, and volcanic activity.

Front

What are divergent boundaries?

Back

Divergent boundaries are areas where two tectonic plates move apart, leading to the formation of new crust, such as mid-ocean ridges.

Front

What is a transform fault?

Back

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

Front

What is a volcanic island arc?

Back

A volcanic island arc is a chain of volcanic islands formed at a convergent boundary between two oceanic plates.

Front

What evidence supports the theory of plate tectonics?

Back

Evidence includes similar rock formations on different continents, fossil records, and the fit of continental coastlines.

Front

What is the mantle?

Back

The mantle is the thick layer of the Earth located between the crust and the core, composed of semi-solid rock that flows slowly.

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.