Continental Drift Theory Overview

What observation did Alfred Wegener make about the continents?

What was the main reaction of the scientific community to Wegener's theory?

In what century did Alfred Wegener propose his theory of continental drift?

What percentage of the Earth's surface is covered by continents?

What profession did Alfred Wegener primarily hold?

What concept did Vagner propose about the continents?

What does the term 'Pangaea' translate to in Greek?

What evidence did Vagner use to support his theory that continents are like puzzle pieces?

Which organism's fossil distribution contributed to Vagner's theory?

What did Vagner conclude about mountain ranges in the northeastern United States and Northern Europe?

What was the main challenge Vagner faced when promoting his theory?

The fossil correlation evidence suggests that identical fossils found on different continents indicate what?

What characteristic of the Mesosaurus made it significant to Vagner's theory?

Which of the following provides evidence for Vagner's theory related to rock structures?

Continental Drift Theory

Alfred Wegener, a German meteorologist, proposed the theory of continental drift.
He observed that continents appear to fit together like puzzle pieces.
This observation, along with fossil and geological evidence, led him to hypothesize that continents were once connected and have drifted apart.

Evidence for Continental Drift

Apparent fit of continents: Coastlines of continents resemble a jigsaw puzzle, suggesting prior connection.
Fossil correlation: Identical fossils of extinct organisms have been discovered on continents now separated by oceans. This suggests the continents were once together. Examples include the Mesosaurus.
Rock/Mountain correlation: Similar types and ages of rocks and mountain ranges are found on different continents, suggesting connections.
Paleoclimate data: Glacial evidence (striations) and fossil fuels like coal are found in areas now experiencing different climates than historical records. This suggests past climate conditions and continental movement. Coal deposits in locations presently characterized by cold climates.

Pangaea

Pangaea was the postulated supercontinent proposed by Wegener.
It existed approximately 250 million years ago.
Pangaea was a Greek term for "all earth."

Wegener's Fate

Wegener's theory was initially met with skepticism.
He died before his theory was fully accepted and the mechanism for continental drift was understood.
His expedition to the North Pole ended tragically.

Explore the groundbreaking theory of continental drift proposed by Alfred Wegener. This quiz covers key evidence such as the fit of continents, fossil correlations, and paleoclimate data. Test your knowledge on how these observations support the idea that continents were once connected.