Earth's Layers and Plate Tectonics

Front

What is Seafloor Spreading?

Back

Seafloor Spreading is the process by which new oceanic crust is formed at mid-ocean ridges and older crust moves away from the ridge, providing evidence for the movement of tectonic plates.

Front

What are the most abundant elements in the Earth's crust?

Back

The most abundant elements in the Earth's crust are silicon and oxygen.

Front

What geological feature is associated with transform boundaries?

Back

Earthquakes are commonly associated with transform boundaries, where tectonic plates slide past each other.

Front

True or False: Ocean trenches always form at subduction zones where dense oceanic crust subducts.

Back

True.

Front

Which layer of the Earth is the least dense?

Back

The crust is the least dense layer of the Earth.

Front

What is the Earth's outer core primarily made of?

Back

The Earth's outer core is primarily made of liquid iron and nickel.

Front

Define Plate Tectonics.

Back

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

Front

What is a subduction zone?

Back

A subduction zone is an area where one tectonic plate moves under another and is forced into the mantle, often creating ocean trenches.

Front

What is the difference between continental crust and oceanic crust?

Back

Continental crust is thicker and less dense than oceanic crust, which is thinner and denser.

Front

What is the role of convection currents in the mantle?

Back

Convection currents in the mantle drive the movement of tectonic plates by transferring heat from the Earth's interior to the surface.