Earth Science Key Terms and Concepts

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tectonic plate

Back

The collision of two tectonic plates along the San Andreas Fault is the cause of earthquakes in California.

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erosion

Back

Erosion caused by wind and rain has sculpted unique rock formations in the Grand Canyon.

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Radiation

Back

Radiation from the sun is essential for life on Earth, but it can also be harmful in excess.

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ozone

Back

The ozone layer in the atmosphere protects us from the sun.

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salinity

Back

The high salinity of the Dead Sea makes it so dense that bodies float effortlessly.

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lithosphere

Back

The lithosphere is the outermost and most rigid layer of the Earth.

Front

asthenosphere

Back

The asthenosphere is the mantle layer located below the lithosphere.

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conduction

Back

Conduction is the transfer of heat through a material without the movement of matter.

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convection

Back

Convection is the transfer of heat through the movement of fluids (liquids or gases).

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crust

Back

The crust is the outermost and thinnest layer of the Earth.