Continental Drift

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What is Continental Drift?

Back

The theory that continents have moved over geological time and were once joined together in a single landmass.

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Who proposed the theory of Continental Drift?

Back

Alfred Wegener.

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What is Pangaea?

Back

A supercontinent that existed during the late Paleozoic and early Mesozoic eras, where all continents were joined together.

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What evidence did Wegener use to support his theory?

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Fossil evidence, geological similarities, and the fit of continental shapes.

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What are tectonic plates?

Back

Large sections of the Earth's lithosphere that move and interact with each other.

Front

How do similar fossils on different continents support Continental Drift?

Back

They suggest that continents were once connected, allowing species to inhabit those areas.

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What is the significance of the Appalachian Mountains in relation to Continental Drift?

Back

Their similarity to mountain ranges in Europe supports the idea that North America and Europe were once connected.

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What is the difference between a hypothesis and a theory in science?

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A hypothesis is an educated guess that requires testing, while a theory is a well-supported explanation based on evidence.

Front

What role do glaciers play in supporting the theory of Continental Drift?

Back

Glacial scarring on continents suggests they were once connected and experienced similar climatic conditions.

Front

What is the concept of 'fit' in Continental Drift?

Back

The idea that continents can fit together like puzzle pieces, indicating they were once joined.