Plate Tectonics Flashcard

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.

Front

What are tectonic plates?

Back

Large sections of the Earth's lithosphere that move and interact with each other, causing geological activity such as earthquakes and volcanic eruptions.

Front

What is a convergent boundary?

Back

A type of plate boundary where two tectonic plates move toward each other, often causing one plate to be forced beneath the other.

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What is a divergent boundary?

Back

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

Front

What is a transform boundary?

Back

A type of plate boundary where two tectonic plates slide past each other horizontally, causing friction and earthquakes.

Front

What evidence supports the theory of plate tectonics?

Back

Fossil distribution, geological formations, and the fit of continental coastlines, as well as seismic and volcanic activity.

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What is continental drift?

Back

The hypothesis that continents have moved over geological time and were once joined together in a single landmass.

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What is subduction?

Back

The process by which one tectonic plate is forced under another, often leading to volcanic activity and the formation of mountain ranges.

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What are mid-ocean ridges?

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Underwater mountain ranges formed by divergent tectonic plates where new oceanic crust is created.

Front

What is an earthquake?

Back

A sudden release of energy in the Earth's crust that creates seismic waves, often caused by the movement of tectonic plates.