Plate Tectonics Flashcards
Scientific Theory
A scientific theory is a well-tested concept that explains a wide range of observations.
Plate
Separate broken sections of the lithosphere.
Plate tectonics
The theory of plate tectonics explains the formation, movement, and subduction of earth’s plates.
Faults
Faults are breaks in Earth’s crust where rocks have slipped past each other.
Divergent boundary
The place where two plates mover apart, or diverge, is called a divergent boundary.
Rift Valley
A deep valley that forms along divergent boundaries.
Convergent Boundary
The place where two plates come together, or converge, is called a convergent boundary. When they converge it is called a collision.
Transform Boundaries
A transform boundary is a place where two plates slip past each other, moving in opposite directions. No crust is created nor destroyed. An example is when you rub your hands together.
