Geological Concepts and Terms

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Tectonic Plate

Back

A rigid section of Earth's crust that moves over the mantle.

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Continental Drift

Back

The theory that continents have moved across Earth's surface over time.

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Plate Tectonics

Back

The scientific theory explaining the movement of Earth's plates and associated geological activity.

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Convergent Boundary

Back

A place where two tectonic plates move towards each other.

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Divergent Boundary

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A place where two tectonic plates move away from each other.

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Transform Boundary

Back

A place where tectonic plates slide past each other horizontally.

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Subduction

Back

The process where one plate sinks beneath another into the mantle.

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Seafloor Spreading

Back

New ocean crust forms as magma rises at mid-ocean ridges and spreads outward.

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Mid-Ocean Ridge

Back

An underwater mountain range formed by plates moving apart.

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Ocean Trench

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A deep valley in the ocean floor formed where one plate is subducted under another.