Plate Tectonics Review

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.

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What is Seafloor Spreading?

Back

The process by which new oceanic crust is formed at mid-ocean ridges as tectonic plates move apart.

Front

What is a Convergent Plate Boundary?

Back

A tectonic boundary where two plates collide, leading to subduction or mountain building.

Front

What is Subduction?

Back

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

Front

What is an Oceanic-Oceanic Convergence?

Back

A type of convergent boundary where two oceanic plates collide, resulting in one plate subducting beneath the other.

Front

What is an Echo Sounder?

Back

A device used to map seafloor bathymetry by sending sound waves to the seafloor and measuring the time it takes for the echoes to return.

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What is Magnetite?

Back

A magnetic mineral that can align with the Earth's magnetic field, often found in igneous rocks.

Front

What is a Transform Fault?

Back

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

Front

What is the Atlantic Ocean's role in Plate Tectonics?

Back

The Atlantic Ocean is an example of a spreading ocean, where the seafloor is being created by tectonic activity at the Mid-Atlantic Ridge.

Front

What is Bathymetry?

Back

The study of underwater depth of ocean floors or lake beds.