Understanding Tectonic Plates Quiz

What are the puzzle pieces of the Earth's surface called?

• Tectonic plates

• Puzzles

• Earthquakes

Answer explanation

The Earth's surface is divided into large sections known as tectonic plates. These plates float on the semi-fluid asthenosphere and are responsible for geological activities such as earthquakes and volcanic eruptions.

Most geologists think that the movement of Earth’s plates is caused by _______

• convection.

• continental drift.

• subduction.

• conduction.

Answer explanation

Most geologists believe that the movement of Earth's plates is primarily driven by convection currents in the mantle, which create the forces necessary for plate tectonics, making 'convection' the correct answer.

When plates collide we get ________.

• crumbles

• volcanos

• trenches

• mountain ranges

Answer explanation

When tectonic plates collide, they can push against each other, leading to the formation of mountain ranges. This process is known as orogeny, which is responsible for creating some of the world's largest mountains.

This is when two plates converge but one slides under the other due to density.

• Uplift

• Subduction

• Trench

• None of the above

Answer explanation

The correct answer is 'Subduction' because it describes the process where one tectonic plate slides under another due to differences in density, leading to geological features like trenches and volcanic activity.

The line of volcanoes that surround the Pacific Ocean's subduction zone is referred to as the

• Trench Ridge

• Hot Spot

• Ring of Fire

• Mid-Ocean Ridge

Answer explanation

The 'Ring of Fire' is a major area in the Pacific Ocean basin where a large number of earthquakes and volcanic eruptions occur, forming a ring of volcanoes around the ocean's subduction zones.

This famous fault in California has a lot of earthquakes!

• New Madrid

• Denali Fault

• Ramapo Seismic Zone

• San Andreas Fault

Answer explanation

The San Andreas Fault is a well-known fault line in California, famous for its frequent earthquakes. The other options, like the New Madrid and Denali Faults, are located elsewhere, making San Andreas the correct choice.

What type of plate boundary occurs when two tectonic plates move away from each other?

• Convergent boundary

• Transform boundary

• Divergent boundary

• Subduction zone

Answer explanation

A divergent boundary occurs when two tectonic plates move away from each other, leading to the formation of new crust as magma rises to the surface. This is distinct from convergent and transform boundaries.

Which of the following is NOT a type of tectonic plate?

• Continental plates

• Oceanic plates

• Mantle plates

• Lithospheric plates

Answer explanation

Mantle plates are not recognized as a type of tectonic plate. The main types are continental plates, oceanic plates, and lithospheric plates, which are involved in tectonic activity.

What is the primary mechanism that drives the movement of tectonic plates?

• Wind currents

• Solar energy

• Convection currents in the mantle

• Gravitational pull from the moon

Answer explanation

The primary mechanism driving tectonic plate movement is convection currents in the mantle. These currents are caused by the heat from the Earth's core, creating a cycle that pushes plates apart or pulls them together.

Which of the following is an effect of plate tectonics?

• Formation of rivers

• Creation of mountain ranges

• Changes in weather patterns

• Erosion of soil

Answer explanation

Plate tectonics is responsible for the movement of Earth's plates, which leads to the creation of mountain ranges through processes like folding and faulting. Other options do not directly result from tectonic activity.