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Science "Our Changing Earth"

Terms in this set (11)

What is a divergent boundary?
A divergent boundary is formed when two plates move apart. (Think of the word DIVIDE)
What is a convergent boundary?
Convergent boundaries are formed when two plates collide; mountains and island arcs can be formed as a result of convergent boundary.
What is Alfred Wegener's Theory of continental drift?
He believed the continents used to be together in one continent called Pangaea and they had moved apart, and are still moving today.
What moves tectonic plates?
Convection currents in the asthenosphere cause the plates to move.
What is a convection current?
The path along which energy is transferred.
What evidence is used to support Wegener's Theory and why might it have been difficult to prove?
He found warm weather fossils in a cold weather climate. The continents fit together as a puzzle. Fossils of the same animal were found on different continents. The Appalachian Mountains has similar chains in Europe.
Why was it difficult for people to believe his theory?
Wegener has no explanation but now we know because of the convection currents.
What's the difference between continental drift and plate tectonics?
Continental drift is the idea that the continents move. Plate tectonics: the Earth is broken up into plates that are constantly moving.
Explain the theory of Plate tectonics and be sure to include the information of what makes the plates move.
The lithosphere makes the plates move from convection currents. And the plate tectonics are the reason that the volcanoes and earthquakes happen. Earth's upper mantle is broken into several plates. The plates float on the asthenosphere.
How does seafloor spreading support the theory of plate tectonics?
Sea floor spreading shows that the Earth's crust is in motion and changing.
What is a Transforment boundary?
Transforment boundaries are formed when plates slide past each other with ease.
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