Amplify Plate Motion

Front

What is a convergent plate boundary?

Back

A convergent plate boundary is where two tectonic plates move towards each other, often causing one plate to be forced below the other, leading to subduction.

Front

What is a divergent plate boundary?

Back

A divergent plate boundary is where two tectonic plates move away from each other, allowing magma to rise and create new crust, often seen at mid-ocean ridges.

Front

What is a transform fault boundary?

Back

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

Front

How long does it take for tectonic plates to travel great distances?

Back

It takes millions of years for tectonic plates to travel great distances.

Front

What layer do Earth's plates move on?

Back

Earth's plates move on a soft, solid layer of rock called the mantle.

Front

What happens at a divergent plate boundary?

Back

At a divergent plate boundary, new plates are formed as magma rises to the surface and solidifies.

Front

What is subduction?

Back

Subduction is the process where one tectonic plate is forced under another at a convergent boundary.

Front

What geological features are commonly formed at convergent boundaries?

Back

Common geological features formed at convergent boundaries include mountains, deep ocean trenches, and volcanic arcs.

Front

What is the significance of the mantle in plate tectonics?

Back

The mantle is significant in plate tectonics as it provides the semi-fluid layer on which tectonic plates float and move.

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.