RP 2-3 (Plate Tectonics)

Front

What is continental drift?

Back

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

Front

Who proposed the theory of continental drift?

Back

Alfred Wegener.

Front

What evidence did Wegener use to support his theory of continental drift?

Back

Fossil evidence, matching coastlines, and geological similarities between continents.

Front

Why was Wegener's theory initially rejected?

Back

He could not explain the mechanism behind continental drift.

Front

What are convection currents?

Back

The movement of fluid caused by differences in temperature and density.

Front

How do convection currents affect tectonic plates?

Back

They drive the movement of tectonic plates by causing them to rise and sink.

Front

What is the Earth's crust?

Back

The outermost layer of the Earth, which is solid and relatively thin compared to other layers.

Front

What is the mantle?

Back

The layer of the Earth between the crust and the core, composed of semi-solid rock that flows slowly.

Front

What is the outer core?

Back

The liquid layer of the Earth's core, composed mainly of iron and nickel.

Front

What is the inner core?

Back

The solid, innermost layer of the Earth, also composed mainly of iron and nickel.