Geology of North America: the North American Plate

The video explains the concept of tectonic plates, focusing on the North American plate. It describes how these plates, which are like the skin of an apple in thickness, move and interact over time, causing geological processes such as earthquakes and volcanic eruptions. The North American plate includes both land and parts of the Atlantic Ocean floor. Despite being imperceptible, the plate moves at a rate similar to fingernail growth. The video concludes with a discussion on how these movements have shaped the continent.

What is the average thickness of tectonic plates?

• 200 kilometers

• 100 kilometers

• 50 kilometers

• 150 kilometers

Which of the following is true about the North American plate?

• It includes parts of the Pacific Ocean.

• It only contains land.

• It extends into the Atlantic Ocean.

• It is stationary.

Which geological process is NOT mentioned as being influenced by plate interactions?

• Earthquakes

• Mountain building

• Volcanic eruptions

• Tsunamis

At what rate is the North American plate moving?

• 1-2 centimeters per year

• 2-3 centimeters per year

• 3-4 centimeters per year

• 4-5 centimeters per year

How is the movement of the North American plate described?

• As slow as fingernail growth

• As fast as a plane

• As fast as a car

• As slow as a snail