Plate Tectonics

Front

What does the theory of continental drift state?

Back

The continents were once joined in a super-continent and have moved over time.

Front

How were the Appalachian Mountains formed?

Back

The Appalachian Mountains were formed when landmasses came together.

Front

What geological feature is formed when crustal plates pull apart?

Back

Rift zones are formed when crustal plates pull apart from one another.

Front

Why was Wegener's theory of continental drift not widely accepted?

Back

Wegener's theory was not widely accepted because he could not explain HOW the continents moved.

Front

What is the source of energy that drives tectonic plate movement?

Back

Convection currents in the mantle drive tectonic plate movement.

Front

What are tectonic plates?

Back

Tectonic plates are large sections of the Earth's lithosphere that move and interact with one another.

Front

What is subduction?

Back

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

Front

What are oceanic trenches?

Back

Oceanic trenches are deep underwater canyons formed at subduction zones.

Front

What is a transform fault?

Back

A transform fault is a type of fault where two tectonic plates slide past each other horizontally.

Front

What is the Ring of Fire?

Back

The Ring of Fire is a major area in the Pacific Ocean where many earthquakes and volcanic eruptions occur due to tectonic plate movements.