Continental Drift and Seafloor spreading

Front

What does the theory of continental drift state?

Back

The continents were once joined in a super-continent and have moved over time.

Front

Why did no one believe Wegener's theory?

Back

He could not explain HOW the continents moved.

Front

What is the lithosphere?

Back

The lithosphere is the rigid outer layer of the Earth, consisting of the crust and upper mantle.

Front

What is the asthenosphere?

Back

The asthenosphere is the semi-fluid layer of the mantle beneath the lithosphere, allowing for the movement of tectonic plates.

Front

What is seafloor spreading?

Back

Seafloor spreading is the process by which new oceanic crust is formed at mid-ocean ridges and older crust is pushed away.

Front

What evidence supports the theory of continental drift?

Back

Fossil distribution, geological similarities, and the fit of continental coastlines.

Front

What are tectonic plates?

Back

Tectonic plates are large sections of the Earth's lithosphere that move and interact at their boundaries.

Front

What is the significance of mid-ocean ridges?

Back

Mid-ocean ridges are underwater mountain ranges where seafloor spreading occurs.

Front

How do convection currents affect plate tectonics?

Back

Convection currents in the mantle drive the movement of tectonic plates.

Front

What is Pangaea?

Back

Pangaea was a supercontinent that existed during the late Paleozoic and early Mesozoic eras.