Seafloor Spreading & Continental Drift

Front

What is seafloor spreading?

Back

Seafloor spreading is the process by which new oceanic crust is formed at mid-ocean ridges and gradually moves away from the ridge, causing the ocean floor to expand.

Front

What evidence supports the theory of continental drift?

Back

Evidence includes the fit of continental coastlines, fossil similarities across continents, and geological similarities in rock formations.

Front

Where is the youngest oceanic crust typically found?

Back

The youngest oceanic crust is found at mid-ocean ridges, where new crust is formed.

Front

Where is the oldest oceanic crust typically located?

Back

The oldest oceanic crust is located farthest from mid-ocean ridges, often near continental margins.

Front

What role do plate boundaries play in geological activity?

Back

Plate boundaries are regions where tectonic plates meet, and they are often sites of earthquakes and volcanic activity.

Front

What are tectonic plates?

Back

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

Front

What is the significance of glacier scars in understanding continental drift?

Back

Glacier scars indicate that continents like Africa were once located in colder climates, supporting the idea of continental movement.

Front

How do earthquakes relate to plate tectonics?

Back

Earthquakes occur primarily along plate boundaries due to the movement and interaction of tectonic plates.

Front

What is a mid-ocean ridge?

Back

A mid-ocean ridge is an underwater mountain range formed by the upwelling of magma at divergent plate boundaries.

Front

What is subduction?

Back

Subduction is the process where one tectonic plate moves under another and sinks into the mantle, often causing volcanic activity.