Tectonic Plates

Question 1

What are convection currents ?

Answer 1

Convection currents are the circular movement
of magma in the mantle. They occur when
magma at the bottom of the mantle is super-
heated by the outer core. It then begins to
rise. But, as it rises it starts to cool. Once it
cools too much, it begins to move sideways,
which helps push the plate along. Eventually,
the cool magma sinks back down, and the
process is repeated.

Question 2

Explain a constructive plate boundary

Answer 2

At constructive plate
boundaries, plates are
moving apart. This allows
magma from the mantle to
push its way up through the
gaps. When it reaches the
surface, it cools and
solidifies to form new lan

Question 3

Explain destructive plate boundary

Answer 3

At a destructive plate
boundary, the plates are
moving towards each other.
Sometimes the heavier plate
disappears beneath the
lighter plate (subducted)
and melts in the mantle. The
lighter plate rises up to form mountains

Question 4

Explain passive plate boundary’s

Answer 4

At a passive plate boundary,
two plates are sliding past
each other, either in
opposite directions or the
same direction. Earthquake
are very common at this
type of boundary.

Question 5

Layers of the earth?

Answer 5

Crust
Mantle
Outer core
Inner core