Tectonic Plates Flashcards
How do earthquakes and volcanoes happen?
These happen when the tectonic plates meet causing huge pressure to build up. Eventually, one of the plates gives way and the sudden movement causes earthquakes or volcanoes to form.
Why is it difficult to predict where and when earthquakes or volcanoes will happen?
Scientists do not know enough about what is happening inside the Earth to predict where or when they will happen.
Who was Alfred Wegener and what was his idea?
He was a scientist who was first to suggest the idea of continental drift.
Why did other scientists not accept Wegener’s ideas about Continental Drift?
Wegener could not explain why the continents moved.
Why do tectonic plates move?
This is due to Convection currents in the mantle that are caused by radioactive decay.
