Earth Science Lesson 1 & 2 Flashcard

Front

What are tectonic plates?

Back

Tectonic plates are large sections of the Earth's lithosphere that move and interact with each other, causing geological activity such as earthquakes and volcanic eruptions.

Front

What is the significance of the mid-ocean ridge?

Back

The mid-ocean ridge is where new oceanic crust is formed through volcanic activity, making it the location of the youngest oceanic floor.

Front

What does the theory of Continental Drift propose?

Back

The theory of Continental Drift suggests that continents were once part of a single supercontinent called Pangaea, which gradually drifted apart.

Front

Where are most volcanoes located?

Back

Most volcanoes are located along the edges of tectonic plates, particularly at convergent and divergent boundaries.

Front

What is Pangaea?

Back

Pangaea was an ancient supercontinent that existed millions of years ago, where all the continents were joined together.

Front

How do tectonic plates affect earthquakes?

Back

Earthquakes occur when tectonic plates move and interact, causing stress to build up and eventually release in the form of seismic waves.

Front

What is the difference between oceanic and continental plates?

Back

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

Front

What are the four types of plate boundaries?

Back

The four types of plate boundaries are divergent, convergent, transform, and boundary zones.

Front

What is a transform boundary?

Back

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

Front

What is subduction?

Back

Subduction is the process where one tectonic plate is forced under another, leading to volcanic activity and the formation of deep ocean trenches.