Plate Tectonics

Front

What is Plate Tectonics?

Back

The theory explaining the movement of the Earth's lithosphere, which is divided into tectonic plates that float on the semi-fluid asthenosphere.

Front

What are tectonic plates?

Back

Large sections of the Earth's lithosphere that move and interact with one another, causing geological activity such as earthquakes and volcanic eruptions.

Front

What is the lithosphere?

Back

The outermost layer of Earth consisting of the crust and upper mantle.

Front

What is the asthenosphere?

Back

A semi-fluid layer of the Earth located beneath the lithosphere, allowing tectonic plates to move.

Front

What is continental drift?

Back

The gradual movement of continents across the Earth's surface over geological time.

Front

What evidence supports the theory of continental drift?

Back

Similar fossils found on different continents, matching geological formations, and the fit of continental coastlines.

Front

What is a mid-ocean ridge?

Back

An underwater mountain range formed by plate tectonics, where new oceanic crust is created.

Front

What is subduction?

Back

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

Front

What is a transform boundary?

Back

A type of plate boundary where two plates slide past each other horizontally.

Front

What is an earthquake?

Back

A sudden release of energy in the Earth's crust that creates seismic waves.