plate tectonics

Front

What is plate tectonics?

Back

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

Front

What are tectonic plates?

Back

Large sections of the Earth's lithosphere that move and interact with one another, causing geological phenomena.

Front

What is a convergent boundary?

Back

A tectonic plate boundary where two plates collide, often forming mountains or causing subduction.

Front

What is a divergent boundary?

Back

A tectonic plate boundary where two plates move apart, leading to the formation of new crust, such as mid-ocean ridges.

Front

What is a transform boundary?

Back

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

Front

What is subduction?

Back

The process where one tectonic plate slides beneath another, often leading to volcanic activity.

Front

What is sea-floor spreading?

Back

The process by which new oceanic crust is created at mid-ocean ridges as tectonic plates pull apart.

Front

What is Pangea?

Back

A supercontinent that existed during the late Paleozoic and early Mesozoic eras, where all continents were joined together.

Front

What geological features are formed at convergent boundaries?

Back

Mountains, deep ocean trenches, and volcanic arcs.

Front

What is the asthenosphere?

Back

The semi-fluid layer of the Earth's mantle beneath the lithosphere, allowing tectonic plates to move.