Plate Tectonics Flashcard

Front

What is Plate Tectonics?

Back

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

Front

What are the three main types of plate boundaries?

Back

Convergent, Divergent, and Transform boundaries.

Front

What happens at a convergent boundary?

Back

Two tectonic plates collide, which can cause mountains to form or one plate to be subducted beneath the other.

Front

What is a divergent boundary?

Back

A plate boundary where two tectonic plates move away from each other, often creating new crust as magma rises to the surface.

Front

What is a transform boundary?

Back

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

Front

What is subduction?

Back

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

Front

What is continental drift?

Back

The hypothesis that continents have moved over geological time and were once joined together.

Front

Who proposed the theory of continental drift?

Back

Alfred Wegener.

Front

What evidence supports the theory of plate tectonics?

Back

Fossil distribution, geological similarities, and the fit of continental coastlines.

Front

What type of fossils would be found in an area that was once covered by salt water?

Back

Marine fossils, such as those from fish, sharks, and other sea creatures.