The Theory of Plate Tectonics

A section of the lithosphere that slowly moves over the asthenosphere.

• plate

• lithosphere

• boundary

The theory that pieces of Earth’s lithosphere are in constant motion.

• Theory of Gravity

• Theory of Continental Drift

• Theory of Plate Tectonics

What is the source of plate tectonic movement?

• earthquakes

• convection currents

• volcanoes

How far can plates move in 1 year?

• great distances

• 2.5 cm - 15 cm

• 1 - 3 miles

True or False: Oceanic crust is newer and more dense than continental crust.

• True

• False

Plate boundary where plates divide, or move apart from one another.

• Divergent Boundary

• Transform Boundary

• Convergent (Collision) Boundary

• Convergent (Subduction) Boundary

Plate boundary where plates collide and one boundary sinks below the other one.

• Divergent Boundary

• Transform Boundary

• Convergent (Collision) Boundary

• Convergent (Subduction) Boundary

Plate boundary where continental plates collide.

• Divergent Boundary

• Transform Boundary

• Convergent (Collision) Boundary

• Convergent (Subduction) Boundary

Plate boundary where plates slide horizontally past each other.

• Divergent Boundary

• Transform Boundary

• Convergent (Collision) Boundary

• Convergent (Subduction) Boundary

Mid-ocean ridges are caused at this type of plate boundary.

• Divergent Boundary

• Transform Boundary

• Convergent (Collision) Boundary

• Convergent (Subduction) Boundary