Plate Boundaries

Front

What is a plate boundary?

Back

A plate boundary is the edge where two tectonic plates meet. These boundaries can be classified into three main types: convergent, divergent, and transform.

Front

What happens at a transform boundary?

Back

At a transform boundary, two tectonic plates slide past each other horizontally, which can cause earthquakes.

Front

What is a convergent boundary?

Back

A convergent boundary is where two tectonic plates move towards each other, often resulting in one plate being forced below the other, creating subduction zones.

Front

What is a divergent boundary?

Back

A divergent boundary is where two tectonic plates move away from each other, leading to the formation of new crust, often seen at mid-ocean ridges.

Front

What is a subduction zone?

Back

A subduction zone is an area where one tectonic plate sinks below another, typically occurring at convergent boundaries.

Front

What geologic feature is commonly associated with convergent boundaries?

Back

Mountains are commonly formed at convergent boundaries due to the collision and compression of tectonic plates.

Front

What is the primary cause of earthquakes at transform boundaries?

Back

The primary cause of earthquakes at transform boundaries is the friction and stress that builds up as plates slide past each other.

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.

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What is the Ring of Fire?

Back

The Ring of Fire is a major area in the Pacific Ocean where many earthquakes and volcanic eruptions occur, primarily due to tectonic plate boundaries.

Front

What is a rift valley?

Back

A rift valley is a lowland region formed by the divergence of tectonic plates, often characterized by steep walls and a central block.