Plate Tectonics

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.

Front

What are tectonic plates?

Back

Large sections of the Earth's lithosphere that move and interact with one another.

Front

What happens at a Convergent Boundary?

Back

Two tectonic plates move toward each other, often causing mountains to form or one plate to be forced under another.

Front

What is a Divergent Boundary?

Back

A tectonic plate boundary where two plates move away from each other, often resulting in sea floor spreading.

Front

What is a Transform Boundary?

Back

A boundary where two tectonic plates slide past one another, often causing earthquakes.

Front

What is sea floor spreading?

Back

The process by which new oceanic crust is created at mid-ocean ridges as molten material rises from the mantle.

Front

What is subduction?

Back

The process where one tectonic plate is forced under another, often leading to volcanic activity.

Front

What geological features are formed by Convergent Boundaries?

Back

Mountains, deep ocean trenches, and volcanic arcs.

Front

What is the Ring of Fire?

Back

A major area in the basin of the Pacific Ocean where a large number of earthquakes and volcanic eruptions occur.

Front

What causes earthquakes?

Back

The sudden release of energy in the Earth's crust due to the movement of tectonic plates.