Plate Tectonics

Front

What is Plate Tectonics?

Back

The theory that explains the structure and movement of Earth's lithosphere, which is divided into tectonic plates.

Front

What causes the movement of Earth's plates?

Back

Convection currents in the mantle.

Front

What are the two types of crust?

Back

Continental crust and oceanic crust.

Front

What is a convergent boundary?

Back

A place where two tectonic plates come together, often causing one plate to be forced beneath the other.

Front

What is a divergent boundary?

Back

A place where two tectonic plates move apart, leading to the formation of new crust.

Front

What is a transform boundary?

Back

A place where two tectonic plates slide past each other horizontally.

Front

What geologic feature is commonly found at a divergent boundary between oceanic crust?

Back

Mid-Ocean Ridge.

Front

What is subduction?

Back

The process by which one tectonic plate is forced under another plate.

Front

What evidence did Wegener use to support his theory of continental drift?

Back

The shape of the continents, similar fossils found on separate continents, and tree fossils found in odd places.

Front

What is a rift valley?

Back

A lowland region formed by the divergence of tectonic plates.