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 that float on the semi-fluid asthenosphere.

Front

What is Pangaea?

Back

A supercontinent that existed around 200 million years ago, where all the continents were joined together.

Front

What is a divergent boundary?

Back

A tectonic plate boundary where two plates move away from each other, often resulting in the formation of new crust.

Front

What is the lithosphere?

Back

The rigid outer layer of the Earth, consisting of the crust and upper mantle, divided into tectonic plates.

Front

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

Back

Wegener used the shape of continents, similar fossils found on separate continents, and tree fossils found in unusual locations.

Front

What is a convergent boundary?

Back

A tectonic plate boundary where two plates move towards each other, often causing one plate to be forced beneath another.

Front

What is a transform boundary?

Back

A tectonic plate boundary where two plates slide past each other horizontally, leading to earthquakes.

Front

What is subduction?

Back

The process by which one tectonic plate moves under another plate and sinks into the mantle.

Front

What are tectonic plates?

Back

Large, rigid pieces of the Earth's lithosphere that move and interact at their boundaries.

Front

What is the asthenosphere?

Back

The semi-fluid layer of the upper mantle beneath the lithosphere, allowing tectonic plates to move.