Plate Tectonics

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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.

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What are tectonic plates?

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Large sections of the Earth's lithosphere that move and interact with one another, causing geological phenomena.

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What is a Divergent Boundary?

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A tectonic plate boundary where two plates move apart from each other, often resulting in seafloor spreading.

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What is a Convergent Boundary?

Back

A tectonic plate boundary where two plates collide, leading to one plate being forced below the other, often creating mountains or volcanic activity.

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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, causing earthquakes.

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What is Seafloor Spreading?

Back

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

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What are Volcanic Islands?

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Islands formed by volcanic activity, typically at convergent boundaries where one plate subducts beneath another.

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What is Subduction?

Back

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

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What is the Great Rift Valley?

Back

A tectonic feature formed by the divergence of tectonic plates, characterized by a long, deep valley.

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What is the role of magma in plate tectonics?

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Magma rises to the surface at divergent boundaries, creating new crust, and can lead to volcanic eruptions at convergent boundaries.