Plate Tectonics STAAR Review

Front

What is a divergent boundary?

Back

A divergent boundary is where two tectonic plates move apart from each other, leading to the formation of new crust as magma rises to the surface. An example is the Mid-Atlantic Ridge.

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What happens at a convergent boundary?

Back

At a convergent boundary, two tectonic plates collide or come together. This can result in one plate being forced beneath another, leading to subduction zones and mountain formation.

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What is a transform boundary?

Back

A transform boundary is where two tectonic plates slide past each other horizontally. This movement can cause earthquakes. An example is the San Andreas Fault.

Front

What is the East African Rift Valley an example of?

Back

The East African Rift Valley is an example of a divergent boundary, where tectonic plates are moving apart.

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What geological features are commonly formed at convergent boundaries?

Back

Common geological features formed at convergent boundaries include mountain ranges, deep ocean trenches, and volcanic arcs.

Front

Define tectonic plates.

Back

Tectonic plates are large sections of the Earth's lithosphere that move and interact with one another, causing geological activity such as earthquakes and volcanic eruptions.

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What is subduction?

Back

Subduction is the process where one tectonic plate is forced under another plate, often leading to volcanic activity and the formation of deep ocean trenches.

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What is the Ring of Fire?

Back

The Ring of Fire is a major area in the basin of the Pacific Ocean where a large number of earthquakes and volcanic eruptions occur, primarily due to tectonic plate movements.

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What is the difference between oceanic and continental plates?

Back

Oceanic plates are denser and thinner than continental plates, which are thicker and less dense. This difference affects how they interact at plate boundaries.

Front

What is a fault line?

Back

A fault line is a fracture or zone of fractures between two blocks of rock, which can lead to earthquakes when the blocks move.