Plate Tectonics Flashcard

Front

What are the three main types of plate boundaries?

Back

1. Convergent boundaries 2. Divergent boundaries 3. Transform boundaries

Front

What occurs at a convergent oceanic-continental plate boundary?

Back

Subduction of the oceanic plate beneath the continental plate, often leading to earthquakes and volcanic activity.

Front

What is a divergent boundary?

Back

A plate boundary where two tectonic plates move away from each other, leading to the formation of new crust.

Front

How do folded mountains form?

Back

Folded mountains form when two tectonic plates push against each other, causing the Earth's crust to fold.

Front

What is the primary characteristic of transform boundaries?

Back

Transform boundaries are characterized by plates sliding past one another, which can cause earthquakes.

Front

What geological features are commonly associated with convergent boundaries?

Back

Mountain ranges, deep ocean trenches, and volcanic arcs.

Front

What evidence suggests that an area was once covered by water?

Back

Fossils of marine organisms, such as shark teeth, found in sedimentary rock in that area.

Front

What is the difference between oceanic and continental plates?

Back

Oceanic plates are denser and thinner than continental plates, which are thicker and less dense.

Front

What happens at a divergent boundary?

Back

Magma rises from below the Earth's surface to create new crust as the plates pull apart.

Front

What is subduction?

Back

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