EES.2.1 - How mantle convection powers plate tectonics

Front

What is mantle convection?

Back

Mantle convection is the process by which heat from the Earth's interior causes the mantle to flow, leading to the movement of tectonic plates.

Front

What are tectonic plates?

Back

Tectonic plates are large sections of the Earth's lithosphere that move and interact at their boundaries, causing geological activity.

Front

What is the outer core?

Back

The outer core is a liquid layer of the Earth located beneath the mantle and above the inner core, responsible for generating the Earth's magnetic field.

Front

What is a divergent boundary?

Back

A divergent boundary is a tectonic plate boundary where two plates move away from each other, often resulting in the formation of new crust.

Front

What is a convergent boundary?

Back

A convergent boundary is a tectonic plate boundary where two plates move towards each other, often leading to subduction or mountain formation.

Front

What is subduction?

Back

Subduction is the process where one tectonic plate is forced under another, often leading to volcanic activity and earthquakes.

Front

What are convection currents?

Back

Convection currents are the circular movements of fluid caused by the heating and cooling of the fluid, which in the mantle drives the movement of tectonic plates.

Front

What happens to convection currents if the inner core's heat disappears?

Back

If the heat from the inner core disappears, convection currents would stop, halting the movement of tectonic plates.

Front

Is the mantle completely liquid?

Back

False. The mantle is not completely liquid; it is semi-solid and flows slowly over time.

Front

What is the role of the Earth's crust?

Back

The Earth's crust is the outermost layer of the Earth, providing a solid surface for landforms and supporting life.