Continental Drift Theory

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What is the Continental Drift Theory?

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The Continental Drift Theory is the idea that continents have moved over geological time from a single supercontinent called Pangaea to their current locations.

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Who proposed the Continental Drift Theory?

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Alfred Wegener proposed the Continental Drift Theory in the early 20th century.

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What evidence supports the Continental Drift Theory?

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Evidence includes the distribution of fossils, geological similarities between continents, and the fit of continental coastlines.

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What are tectonic plates?

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Tectonic plates are large pieces of the Earth's lithosphere that move and interact at their boundaries, causing geological activity.

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What is Pangaea?

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Pangaea was a supercontinent that existed during the late Paleozoic and early Mesozoic eras, around 335 million years ago.

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How do convection currents affect the movement of tectonic plates?

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Convection currents in the mantle create movement that causes tectonic plates to shift, leading to earthquakes and volcanic activity.

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What is the significance of Mesosaurus fossils in the context of continental drift?

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Mesosaurus fossils found in both Africa and South America suggest that these continents were once connected.

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What role do glaciers play in supporting the Continental Drift Theory?

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Glacial scars found in continents like Africa indicate that they were once located in colder climates, supporting the idea of continental movement.

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What is the relationship between continental drift and plate tectonics?

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Continental drift is a part of the broader theory of plate tectonics, which explains the movement of the Earth's plates and the resulting geological phenomena.

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What is seafloor spreading?

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Seafloor spreading is the process by which new oceanic crust is formed at mid-ocean ridges and pushes older crust away, contributing to continental drift.