plate tectonics

Front

What is plate tectonics?

Back

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

Front

What are tectonic plates?

Back

Large sections of the Earth's lithosphere that move and interact with each other, causing geological events.

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 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, causing earthquakes.

Front

What are convection currents?

Back

The movement of fluid caused by differences in temperature and density, which drives the movement of tectonic plates.

Front

What is a mid-ocean ridge?

Back

An underwater mountain range formed by divergent tectonic plates, where new oceanic crust is created.

Front

What is a subduction zone?

Back

A region where one tectonic plate is being forced under another, often leading to volcanic activity.

Front

What is continental drift?

Back

The gradual movement of continents across the Earth's surface through geological time.

Front

What is an earthquake?

Back

A sudden release of energy in the Earth's crust that creates seismic waves, often caused by tectonic plate movements.