Understanding Plate Tectonics

What is the theory of plate tectonics?

• Plate tectonics is a theory about the Earth's atmosphere.

• The theory of plate tectonics explains the formation of mountains only.

• The theory of plate tectonics states that the Earth is static and does not change.

• The theory of plate tectonics describes the movement and interaction of the Earth's lithospheric plates.

Name the three types of plate boundaries.

• Subduction, Compression, Expansion

• Lateral, Vertical, Horizontal

• Divergent, Convergent, Transform

• Static, Dynamic, Kinetic

What is the significance of the Ring of Fire?

• The Ring of Fire is significant for its high seismic activity and concentration of volcanoes.

• The Ring of Fire is a famous tourist destination for its beaches.

• It serves as a major trade route for shipping and commerce.

• It is known for its calm seas and stable weather patterns.

How do tectonic plates move?

• Tectonic plates shift because of solar winds.

• Tectonic plates move due to convection currents in the Earth's mantle.

• Tectonic plates are pushed by ocean currents.

• Tectonic plates move due to the Earth's rotation.

What geological features are formed at convergent boundaries?

• Plateaus and canyons

• Subduction zones, ocean trenches, volcanic arcs, and mountain ranges.

• Fault lines and rift valleys

• Deserts and plains

Explain the concept of continental drift.

• Continental drift refers to the sinking of oceanic plates.

• Continental drift is the process of continents merging into one landmass.

• Continental drift is the movement of the Earth's continents relative to each other.

• Continental drift describes the rotation of the Earth on its axis.

What role do tectonic plates play in earthquakes?

• Earthquakes are caused solely by volcanic activity, not tectonic plates.

• Tectonic plates are stationary and do not affect earthquakes.

• Tectonic plates only influence weather patterns, not seismic activity.

• Tectonic plates cause earthquakes by moving and interacting at their boundaries, leading to stress buildup and sudden release.

Describe the process of seafloor spreading.

• Seafloor spreading happens only in the presence of volcanic activity on land.

• Seafloor spreading is the process of oceanic crust being destroyed at subduction zones.

• Seafloor spreading occurs when tectonic plates collide and create mountains.

• Seafloor spreading is the process by which new oceanic crust is formed at mid-ocean ridges as tectonic plates move apart.

What is a transform boundary?

• A transform boundary is where two tectonic plates slide past each other.

• A transform boundary is a type of volcanic boundary.

• A transform boundary is where two tectonic plates collide.

• A transform boundary is where tectonic plates move away from each other.

How do human activities impact tectonic processes?

• Human activities can induce seismic events and alter stress distributions in tectonic processes.

• Human activities can only cause volcanic eruptions.

• Human activities have no effect on tectonic processes.

• Tectonic processes are solely driven by natural forces.