The Continental Drift Theory & Plate Tectonics

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What is the Continental Drift Theory?

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The Continental Drift Theory is the idea that continents were once part of a single landmass that broke apart and drifted to their current locations.

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What is Plate Tectonics?

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Plate Tectonics is the scientific theory that explains the movement of the Earth's lithosphere, which is divided into tectonic plates.

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What occurs at a divergent boundary?

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At a divergent boundary, tectonic plates move away from each other, leading to the formation of new oceanic crust through seafloor spreading.

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What is a convergent boundary?

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A convergent boundary is where two tectonic plates collide, which can result in the formation of mountains, earthquakes, and volcanic activity.

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What is a transform boundary?

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

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What is seafloor spreading?

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Seafloor spreading is the process by which new oceanic crust is formed at divergent boundaries as magma rises to the surface.

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What evidence supports the Continental Drift Theory?

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Fossil evidence, geological similarities, and the fit of continental margins support the Continental Drift Theory.

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What happens at plate boundaries?

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Most earthquakes and volcanoes occur at plate boundaries due to the interactions of tectonic plates.

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What geological features are formed at convergent boundaries?

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Mountains and volcanic arcs are commonly formed at convergent boundaries.

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What is subduction?

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Subduction is the process where one tectonic plate is forced under another, often leading to volcanic activity.