Plate Tectonics and Continental Drift

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What is Plate Tectonics?

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The theory that explains the structure and movement of Earth's lithosphere, which is divided into tectonic plates that float on the semi-fluid asthenosphere.

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What is Continental Drift?

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

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What is a Convergent Boundary?

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A tectonic plate boundary where two plates collide, often causing uplift, mountain formation, and earthquakes.

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What is a Divergent Boundary?

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A tectonic plate boundary where two plates move apart, leading to the formation of new crust, such as at mid-ocean ridges.

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What is a Transform Boundary?

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A tectonic plate boundary where two plates slide past each other horizontally, often causing earthquakes.

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What is Seafloor Spreading?

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The process by which new oceanic crust is formed at mid-ocean ridges as tectonic plates diverge.

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What is the Mid-Atlantic Ridge?

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An underwater mountain range formed by the divergence of tectonic plates, where seafloor spreading occurs.

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What is Uplift in geology?

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The process by which Earth's surface is raised due to tectonic forces, often leading to mountain formation.

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What are Earthquakes?

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Sudden shaking of the ground caused by the movement of tectonic plates along faults.

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What is a Rift Valley?

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A lowland region formed by the divergence of tectonic plates, often associated with volcanic activity.