Plate Tectonics STAAR Review

Front

What is a divergent boundary?

Back

A divergent boundary is where two tectonic plates move away from each other, leading to the formation of new crust. Examples include the Great Rift Valley and Mid-Ocean Ridge.

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What is a transform boundary?

Back

A transform boundary is where two tectonic plates slide past each other horizontally. This movement can cause earthquakes. An example is the San Andreas Fault.

Front

What geological event is commonly associated with transform boundaries?

Back

Earthquakes are commonly associated with transform boundaries due to the friction and stress that builds up as plates slide past each other.

Front

What is a convergent boundary?

Back

A convergent boundary is where two tectonic plates collide or move towards each other, often resulting in the formation of mountains or subduction zones.

Front

What type of crustal feature is formed when two continental plates converge?

Back

Folded Mountains are formed when two continental plates converge and collide.

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What is subduction?

Back

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

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What is the Mid-Ocean Ridge?

Back

The Mid-Ocean Ridge is a continuous mountain range that runs through the world's oceans, formed by divergent tectonic plates.

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What is the Great Rift Valley?

Back

The Great Rift Valley is a large geological fault system in East Africa, formed by the divergence of tectonic plates.

Front

What happens at a convergent boundary between an oceanic plate and a continental plate?

Back

An oceanic plate subducts beneath a continental plate, leading to volcanic activity and the formation of mountain ranges.

Front

What is the San Andreas Fault?

Back

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