Plate Tectonics

Front

What is a divergent boundary?

Back

A divergent boundary is a tectonic plate boundary where two plates move away from each other, leading to the formation of new crust, often seen at mid-ocean ridges.

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What is a convergent boundary?

Back

A convergent boundary is a tectonic plate boundary where two plates collide, which can result in the formation of mountains, volcanic arcs, or deep ocean trenches.

Front

What is a transform boundary?

Back

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

Front

What feature forms when oceanic and continental crust collide?

Back

A volcanic island arc forms when oceanic crust subducts beneath continental crust.

Front

What is sea-floor spreading?

Back

Sea-floor spreading is the process by which new oceanic crust is created at a divergent boundary as magma rises to the surface.

Front

What is the main cause of earthquakes?

Back

Earthquakes are mainly caused by the movement of tectonic plates along faults at transform boundaries.

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What is a rift valley?

Back

A rift valley is a lowland region formed by the divergence of tectonic plates, often characterized by steep walls and a central block.

Front

What happens at a subduction zone?

Back

At a subduction zone, one tectonic plate is forced under another, leading to volcanic activity and the formation of deep ocean trenches.

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What is the Ring of Fire?

Back

The Ring of Fire is a major area in the Pacific Ocean where a large number of earthquakes and volcanic eruptions occur due to tectonic plate movements.

Front

What is the difference between oceanic and continental crust?

Back

Oceanic crust is thinner and denser than continental crust, which is thicker and less dense.