Tectonic Plates Flashcards
What is the process called when tectonic plates move parallel to each other in opposite directions?
Transform
This process is mostly smooth and results in several small earthquakes.
What happens when tectonic plates do not move for years?
A large amount of energy is released, causing a catastrophic earthquake.
This can occur in transform plate boundaries.
What characterizes a convergent plate boundary between two oceanic plates?
One oceanic plate is forced under the other (subduction)
This process leads to the creation of volcanic island arcs.
What is created as an oceanic plate melts during subduction?
Lots of magma, which causes volcanic activity.
This volcanic activity contributes to the formation of volcanic island arcs.
What are the two types of forces that shape landscapes?
Forces that build up the land and forces that tear it down.
The balance between these forces determines the landscape.
How is landscape built up?
Through:
* Tectonic forces that fold up mountain ranges
* Volcanic activity that builds volcanic mountains
These processes contribute to the elevation and structure of the landscape.
What processes tear down the landscape?
Through:
* Weathering
* Erosion
* Deposition
These processes involve the wearing away of rocks and the movement of sediments.
What is weathering?
The process where rocks, mountains, and landscapes are worn away by wind, rain, ice, and snow.
Weathering contributes to the breakdown of geological features.
What is erosion?
The process where sediments are carried away by wind, water, and ice.
Erosion plays a significant role in shaping the landscape by transporting materials.
What is deposition?
The process where sediment gets left in broad flat areas or in ridges by water, wind, and ice.
Deposition can create new landforms or alter existing ones.
