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 causes sea-floor spreading?

Back

The movement of molten material from the mantle that erupts along mid-ocean ridges, pushing older crust away from the ridge.

Front

What is the process of subduction?

Back

The process where one tectonic plate moves under another and sinks into the mantle.

Front

What are the three types of plate boundaries?

Back

Divergent, convergent, and transform boundaries.

Front

What happens at divergent boundaries?

Back

Tectonic plates move apart, leading to the formation of new crust as magma rises to the surface.

Front

What is convection in the context of plate tectonics?

Back

The movement of molten rock in the mantle that causes tectonic plates to move due to heat from the Earth's core.

Front

What is the Earth's crust?

Back

The outermost layer of the Earth, which is solid and relatively thin compared to the other layers.

Front

What is the mantle?

Back

The layer of the Earth located between the crust and the outer core, composed of semi-solid rock that flows slowly.

Front

What is the outer core?

Back

The layer of the Earth beneath the mantle, composed of liquid iron and nickel.

Front

What is the inner core?

Back

The solid, innermost layer of the Earth, composed primarily of iron and nickel.