8.9AB Plate Tectonic Theory

Front

What is Plate Tectonic Theory?

Back

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

Front

What causes earthquakes in California?

Back

Earthquakes in California are primarily caused by two tectonic plates sliding past each other along fault lines.

Front

What geological feature forms when two tectonic plates push toward each other?

Back

A mountain range is likely to form when two tectonic plates collide.

Front

What is a rift valley?

Back

A rift valley is a lowland region formed by the divergence of tectonic plates, where the land is sinking.

Front

What happens at a divergent plate boundary?

Back

At a divergent plate boundary, tectonic plates move apart, leading to the formation of new crust, such as mid-ocean ridges.

Front

What is the significance of the Dead Sea in plate tectonics?

Back

The Dead Sea is located on a boundary between tectonic plates that are moving apart, causing the land to thin and sink.

Front

How did scientists theorize continents were once joined?

Back

Scientists observed that the shapes of continents appeared to fit together like puzzle pieces, suggesting they were once connected.

Front

What is a mid-ocean ridge?

Back

A mid-ocean ridge is an underwater mountain range formed by the upwelling of magma at divergent plate boundaries.

Front

What is the difference between continental and oceanic plates?

Back

Continental plates are thicker and less dense than oceanic plates, which are thinner and denser.

Front

What geological feature is formed by two continental plates colliding?

Back

When two continental plates collide, they can form mountain ranges.