Unit 2: Who's At Risk?

Front

What is thermal convection in Earth's mantle?

Back

Thermal convection in Earth's mantle is the process where heat is transferred through the movement of fluid in the mantle, causing the cycling of matter.

Front

What role does radioactive decay play in Earth's interior?

Back

Radioactive decay generates heat that contributes to mantle convection.

Front

What evidence supports the theory that Earth's crust is broken into plates?

Back

The alignment of earthquake and volcanic activity along plate boundaries supports the theory that Earth's crust is broken into plates.

Front

How do seismic waves provide evidence for the structure of Earth's interior?

Back

Seismic waves indicate that the outer core is liquid because S waves do not pass through it.

Front

What process forms ocean-floor features at divergent boundaries?

Back

Seafloor spreading due to magma rising is responsible for the formation of ocean-floor features at divergent boundaries.

Front

Define mantle convection.

Back

Mantle convection is the slow, churning motion of Earth's mantle caused by heat from the core, leading to the movement of tectonic plates.

Front

What is the significance of tectonic plate boundaries?

Back

Tectonic plate boundaries are significant because they are sites of geological activity, including earthquakes and volcanic eruptions.

Front

Explain the concept of 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 are P waves and S waves?

Back

P waves (primary waves) are compressional waves that can travel through solids and liquids, while S waves (secondary waves) are shear waves that can only travel through solids.

Front

What is seafloor spreading?

Back

Seafloor spreading is the process by which new oceanic crust is formed at mid-ocean ridges as magma rises to the surface.