Chapter 5 - Section 5 - The Theory of Plate Tectonics Flashcards
plate
A section of the lithosphere that slowly moves over the asthenosphere, carrying pieces of continental and oceanic crust.
scientific theory
A well-tested concept that explains a wide range of observations.
plate tectonics
The theory that pieces of Earth’s lithosphere are in constant motion, driven by convection currents in the mantle.
fault
A break in Earth’s crust where masses of rock slip past each other.
divergent boundary
A plate boundary where two plates move away from each other.
rift valley
A deep valley that forms where two plates move apart.
convergent boundary
A plate boundary where two plates move toward each other.
transform boundary
A plate boundary where two plates move past each other in opposite directions.
What are the 3 types of plate boundaries?
divergent boundaries, convergent boundaries, and transform boundaries
When 2 contintental plates collide, the crust is squeed into ________________.
mountain ranges
