Geological Processes

Front

What is a volcanic island chain?

Back

A series of volcanic islands formed by the eruption of magma from underwater volcanoes, typically along tectonic plate boundaries.

Front

What is the rock cycle?

Back

The continuous process of rock formation and transformation, including the processes of igneous, sedimentary, and metamorphic rock formation.

Front

What happens to sedimentary rock at a subduction zone?

Back

It is pushed under another plate, where it can melt into magma and potentially form igneous rock.

Front

What is continental drift?

Back

The theory that continents were once connected as a single landmass and have since drifted apart due to tectonic plate movements.

Front

What is a tectonic plate?

Back

Large sections of the Earth's lithosphere that move and interact with one another, causing geological events like earthquakes and volcanic eruptions.

Front

What is subduction?

Back

The process where one tectonic plate moves under another and sinks into the mantle, often leading to volcanic activity.

Front

What is erosion?

Back

The process by which soil and rock are removed from the Earth's surface by natural processes such as wind or water.

Front

What is cooling in the context of the rock cycle?

Back

The process where molten rock (magma or lava) loses heat and solidifies into igneous rock.

Front

What is the difference between oceanic and continental plates?

Back

Oceanic plates are denser and thinner, while continental plates are thicker and less dense.

Front

What is magma?

Back

Molten rock located beneath the Earth's surface, which can rise to form lava during a volcanic eruption.