Plate Tectonics

Front

What is Plate Tectonics?

Back

The theory that explains the structure and movement of the Earth's lithosphere, which is divided into tectonic plates that float on the semi-fluid asthenosphere.

Front

What happens at a convergent plate boundary?

Back

Two tectonic plates collide, which can lead to the formation of mountains, earthquakes, and volcanic activity.

Front

What is subduction?

Back

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

Front

What is the Law of Superposition?

Back

A geological principle stating that in undisturbed sedimentary rock layers, the oldest layers are at the bottom and the youngest are at the top.

Front

What type of plate boundary forms ocean ridges?

Back

Divergent plate boundaries, where two tectonic plates move away from each other.

Front

What is a transform plate boundary?

Back

A boundary where two tectonic plates slide past each other horizontally, often causing earthquakes.

Front

What geological features are formed at convergent boundaries?

Back

Features such as folded mountains, deep ocean trenches, and volcanic arcs.

Front

What is the difference between oceanic and continental crust?

Back

Oceanic crust is denser and thinner than continental crust, which is thicker and less dense.

Front

What is a fault?

Back

A fracture in the Earth's crust along which movement has occurred.

Front

What are tectonic plates?

Back

Large sections of the Earth's lithosphere that move and interact with each other.