Geology: Geological Eras & Earth’s History Flashcards
1
Q
How old is the Earth?
A
The Earth is approximately 4.5 billion years old, based on radiometric dating.
2
Q
What evidence supports Earth’s age?
A
- Radiometric dating of lead isotopes.
- Oldest minerals found in Jack Hills, Australia.
- Geological studies of rock formations.
3
Q
What is plate tectonics?
A
The movement of Earth’s lithospheric plates, causing earthquakes, mountain formation, and volcanic activity.
4
Q
How does plate tectonics explain the Himalayas?
A
The Himalayas were once underwater, formed by the collision of the Indian and Eurasian plates.
