Earth Science Definition of Terms

It is the rigid and outer layer of the Earth that consists of the crust and the upper mantle.

• lithosphere

• crust

• mantle

• asthenosphere

Are the puzzled pieces of the lithosphere.

• tectonic plates

• crust

• plate tectonics

• fault lines

This is the study of the movement of the plates.

• Plate Tectonics

• Seafloor Spreading

• Tectonism

• Pangaea

A large amount of earth, rock, and other material that moves down a steep slope.

• landslide

• erosion

• weathering

• deposition

A process that breaks down rocks and boulders, turning them into tiny pieces; it is caused by plants, animals, strong weather, or chemical changes in the air.

• landslide

• erosion

• weathering

• deposition

A process that moves soil and tiny rocks away from one place; this happens because of gravity, water, or wind.

• landslide

• erosion

• weathering

• deposition

The placing of broken-down materials such as rocks, sand, or soil in a new place; the broken down material is carried by the wind, water, or ice.

• landslide

• erosion

• weathering

• deposition

A vent, or opening in Earth's surface through which molten rock, gases, and ash erupt.

• mountain

• hill

• volcano

• fault

A sudden shaking of the ground that occurs when masses of rock change position below the Earth's surface.

• volcanic eruption

• earthquake

• typhoon

• tsunami

Are broken down material from Earth such as rocks, sand, soil, and is often carried away by the wind, water, or gravity and settles in its new location.

• rocks

• volcanic bombs

• sediments

• boulders