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, rigid pieces of the Earth's lithosphere that move and interact at their boundaries.

Front

What is a Convergent Boundary?

Back

A type of plate boundary where two tectonic plates move toward each other, often resulting in the formation of mountains or subduction zones.

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What is a Divergent Boundary?

Back

A type of plate boundary where two tectonic plates move away from each other, leading to the formation of new crust, such as mid-ocean ridges.

Front

What is a Transform Boundary?

Back

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

Front

What is Subduction?

Back

The process by which one tectonic plate moves under another plate and sinks into the mantle, often creating deep ocean trenches.

Front

What evidence supports the theory of Plate Tectonics?

Back

Fossil distribution, geological formations, ocean floor mapping, and the fit of continental coastlines.

Front

Who proposed the theory of Continental Drift?

Back

Alfred Wegener.

Front

Why was Wegener's theory of Continental Drift initially rejected?

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There was no mechanism to explain how continents could move.

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What geological features can form at Convergent Boundaries?

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Mountains, deep ocean trenches, and volcanic arcs.