8.9AB Plate Tectonics

Front

What are tectonic plates?

Back

Tectonic plates are 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 plate boundary?

Back

A plate boundary is the edge where two tectonic plates meet. There are three main types: convergent, divergent, and transform boundaries.

Front

What happens at a convergent boundary?

Back

At a convergent boundary, two tectonic plates collide, which can lead to the formation of mountains, earthquakes, and volcanic activity.

Front

What is a divergent boundary?

Back

A divergent boundary is where two tectonic plates move apart from each other, often resulting in the formation of new oceanic crust, such as mid-ocean ridges.

Front

What is a transform fault?

Back

A transform fault is a type of plate boundary where two plates slide past each other horizontally, causing earthquakes.

Front

What landform is commonly associated with divergent boundaries?

Back

Mid-ocean ridges are commonly formed at divergent boundaries where tectonic plates move apart.

Front

What is subduction?

Back

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

Front

What type of volcanic activity is associated with convergent boundaries?

Back

Convergent boundaries often lead to the formation of volcanic islands due to the rising magma from subducted plates.

Front

What is the San Andreas Fault?

Back

The San Andreas Fault is a transform fault located in California, known for its significant seismic activity.

Front

What is seafloor spreading?

Back

Seafloor spreading is the process by which new oceanic crust is created at mid-ocean ridges as tectonic plates pull apart.