Plate Tectonics STAAR Review

Front

What is a divergent boundary?

Back

A divergent boundary is where two tectonic plates move away from each other, leading to the formation of new crust, such as at the Mid-Ocean Ridge.

Front

What geological features are commonly formed at divergent boundaries?

Back

Geological features formed at divergent boundaries include mid-ocean ridges and rift valleys.

Front

What is a transform boundary?

Back

A transform boundary is where two tectonic plates slide past each other horizontally, often causing earthquakes.

Front

What happens at a convergent boundary?

Back

At a convergent boundary, two tectonic plates collide, which can lead to the formation of mountains, subduction zones, or volcanic activity.

Front

What type of crustal feature is formed when two continental plates converge?

Back

When two continental plates converge, folded mountains are formed.

Front

What is subduction?

Back

Subduction is the process where one tectonic plate moves under another and sinks into the mantle, often leading to volcanic activity.

Front

What is the Ring of Fire?

Back

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

Front

What is the difference between oceanic and continental crust?

Back

Oceanic crust is denser and thinner than continental crust, which is thicker and less dense.

Front

What is a fault?

Back

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

Front

What is the focus of an earthquake?

Back

The focus of an earthquake is the point within the Earth where the earthquake originates.