TASK CARDS: Superposition and Continental Drift

Front

What is the theory of continental drift?

Back

The theory that continents have moved over geological time and were once joined together in a single landmass.

Front

What evidence supports the theory of continental drift?

Back

Fossils of the same species of extinct land plants found in both South America and Africa.

Front

What are rock strata?

Back

Layers of rock or soil formed at the Earth's surface, each with distinct characteristics.

Front

Where have Mesosaurus fossils been found?

Back

Between Africa and South America.

Front

What is superposition in geology?

Back

The principle that in undisturbed sedimentary rock layers, the oldest layers are at the bottom and the youngest are at the top.

Front

What is a core sample?

Back

A cylindrical section of soil or rock taken from the ground to study its composition.

Front

What is the significance of igneous rocks in understanding continental drift?

Back

Igneous rocks provide evidence of volcanic activity that can indicate tectonic movement.

Front

What is the role of tectonic plates in continental drift?

Back

Tectonic plates are large sections of the Earth's crust that move and interact, causing continents to drift.

Front

What is a geological time scale?

Back

A system of chronological dating that relates geological strata to time.

Front

What is the difference between oceanic and continental crust?

Back

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