4.1 Plate Tectonics

Front

What is Plate Tectonics?

Back

The theory that explains the structure and movement of the Earth's lithosphere, which is divided into tectonic plates that float on the semi-fluid asthenosphere.

Front

What is the asthenosphere?

Back

A semi-fluid layer of the Earth's mantle located beneath the lithosphere, allowing tectonic plates to move.

Front

What is a convergent boundary?

Back

A tectonic plate boundary where two plates collide, leading to geological features such as mountains, earthquakes, and volcanoes.

Front

What is a divergent boundary?

Back

A tectonic plate boundary where two plates move apart, leading to the formation of new crust, such as mid-ocean ridges.

Front

What is a transform boundary?

Back

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

Front

What geological feature is formed at an oceanic-continental convergent boundary?

Back

Volcanoes are formed due to the subduction of the oceanic plate beneath the continental plate.

Front

What evidence supports the theory of continental drift?

Back

Fossil distribution, geological similarities, and climate data support the idea that continents were once connected.

Front

What is seafloor spreading?

Back

The process by which new oceanic crust is formed at mid-ocean ridges as tectonic plates move apart.

Front

What is a mid-ocean ridge?

Back

An underwater mountain range formed by plate tectonics, where new oceanic crust is created.

Front

What is subduction?

Back

The process where one tectonic plate moves under another and sinks into the mantle, often forming trenches.