plate tectonics

Front

What is plate tectonics?

Back

Plate tectonics is the scientific theory that describes the large-scale movement of Earth's lithosphere, which is divided into tectonic plates that float on the semi-fluid asthenosphere beneath.

Front

What are the three main types of plate boundaries?

Back

The three main types of plate boundaries are divergent, convergent, and transform boundaries.

Front

What occurs at a divergent boundary?

Back

At a divergent boundary, tectonic plates move apart, leading to the formation of new crust, often seen as mid-ocean ridges.

Front

What is a convergent boundary?

Back

A convergent boundary is where two tectonic plates collide, which can result in one plate being forced beneath the other, leading to subduction.

Front

What is a transform boundary?

Back

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

Front

What is the Mid-Ocean Ridge?

Back

The Mid-Ocean Ridge is a continuous mountain range that runs through the world's oceans, formed by the upwelling of magma at divergent boundaries.

Front

What evidence did Wegener use to support the theory of continental drift?

Back

Wegener used evidence such as the shape of continents, similar fossils found on separate continents, and geological similarities.

Front

What is Pangea?

Back

Pangea was a supercontinent that existed about 280 million years ago, where all the continents were joined together.

Front

What happens when two continental plates collide?

Back

When two continental plates collide, they can create mountain ranges due to the compression and folding of the crust.

Front

What is subduction?

Back

Subduction is the process where one tectonic plate moves under another and sinks into the mantle, often causing volcanic activity.