Earth's Internal Energy and Plate Tectonics

Front

What is plate tectonics?

Back

The theory that explains the movement of the Earth's plates and how they interact with each other.

Front

Why are models important in science?

Back

They simplify complex processes for better visualization.

Front

What causes tectonic plates to move?

Back

Convection currents in the Earth's mantle.

Front

What is a convergent plate boundary?

Back

A boundary where plates push against each other, leading to subduction.

Front

What is the primary source of Earth's internal energy?

Back

The decay of radioactive elements.

Front

What do fossils indicate in plate tectonics?

Back

They provide evidence of historical plate movements.

Front

What happens at a divergent plate boundary?

Back

Plates move apart from each other, creating new crust.

Front

What is subduction?

Back

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

Front

What are convection currents?

Back

Circulating movements of material in the mantle that drive plate tectonics.

Front

What is the lithosphere?

Back

The rigid outer layer of the Earth, consisting of the crust and upper mantle.