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Friction between two tectonic plates sliding past each, often between two spreading centers.
Transform fault resistance
The force that opposes slab pull Occurs when a heavy plate is pulled into the mantle but resists subduction because of friction.
Collisional resistance
3-dimensional surface across which there is a significant change in the velocity of motion of one lithospheric plate relative to the adjacent lithosphere plate. speed of plate movement: 2cm/year
Plate boundary
Plates move towards each other Collision of plates Destructs or subducts plates Convergent boundaries creates either a subduction zone or an organic belt
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When denser plates subducts or moves underneath the other
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: Region of deformed rocks, formed when no subduction happens and the 2 plates collide and compresses.
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Plates move away from each other Separation of plates Forms a new crust Creates mid-ocean ridges and rift valleys All oceanic ridges are divergent boundaries
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also called rift zone
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Plates slide against each other in opposite directions Doesn’t create landforms, but produces earthquakes due to the energy released by the movement of plates (elastic-rebound theory).
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The force that resists the forces when plates collide at the boundary in a subduction zone.
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Study Notes
Evidences of the Plate Tectonic Theory
- Plate tectonics explain the movement of Earth's lithosphere, which consists of tectonic plates that float on the semi-fluid asthenosphere.
- Southern continents, such as South America and Africa, appear to fit together like pieces of a jigsaw puzzle, suggesting they were once part of a single landmass (Pangaea).
- Fossil evidence, including similar species of plants and animals found on distant continents, indicates those continents were once connected.
- geological similarities, like mountain ranges and rock formations, exist across continents separated by oceans, supporting the idea of their former connections.
- Seafloor spreading occurs at mid-ocean ridges, where new oceanic crust is created, causing tectonic plates to move apart.
- Earthquakes and volcanic activity predominantly occur along tectonic plate boundaries, providing real-time evidence of plate interactions.
- The distribution of earthquakes and volcanoes maps out tectonic plate boundaries, detailing their activity and potential hazards.
- Paleomagnetic studies reveal the historical movement of continents by analyzing magnetic minerals in rocks, showing changes in magnetic orientation.
- The age of oceanic crust is younger near mid-ocean ridges and older further away, supporting processes of plate creation and subduction.
- Radiometric dating of rocks on land and underwater confirms the gradual movement of tectonic plates over millions of years.
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Description
In this quiz, students will explore the multiple evidences supporting the plate tectonic theory. This includes insights into continental drift, sea-floor spreading, and geological activity. Test your knowledge and understanding of this fundamental topic in Earth Science!
