Plate Tectonics

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What are convergent boundaries?

Back

Convergent boundaries are places where tectonic plates move toward each other, often resulting in the formation of mountains or deep ocean trenches.

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How fast do tectonic plates move?

Back

Tectonic plates move at approximately the same speed as the growth of your fingernails.

Front

What happens to cooler magma in convection currents?

Back

Cooler magma nearest the crust becomes dense and begins to sink.

Front

What are plate boundaries?

Back

Plate boundaries are the places where tectonic plates meet, pull apart, or rub against each other.

Front

What is the Ring of Fire?

Back

The Ring of Fire is a collection of volcanoes located along the Pacific Plate boundary, known for its high volcanic activity.

Front

What is the theory of plate tectonics?

Back

The theory of plate tectonics explains how the Earth's lithosphere is divided into tectonic plates that move over the asthenosphere.

Front

What are divergent boundaries?

Back

Divergent boundaries are places where tectonic plates move away from each other, often creating new crust as magma rises.

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What are transform boundaries?

Back

Transform boundaries are places where tectonic plates slide past one another, causing earthquakes.

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What is subduction?

Back

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

Front

What is a fault line?

Back

A fault line is a fracture in the Earth's crust where blocks of land have moved past each other.