21 - Implications of Plate Tectonics

These flashcards cover key terminology and concepts related to plate tectonics and its implications as discussed in the lecture.

Plate Tectonics

A revolutionary theory that reveals connections between different components of the Earth as a planetary system.

Reservoirs

Components of the Earth such as the crust, mantle, and core.

Subsystems

Systems that include the atmosphere, biosphere, lithosphere, etc.

Eustatic Change

Global change in sea level caused by oceanic factors.

Isostatic Change

Local change in sea level caused by terrestrial factors.

Sea Floor Spreading

The process by which new oceanic crust is created at mid-ocean ridges.

Plume Activity

Magma movement that can build oceanic crust above sea level.

Calcium Carbonate (CaCO3)

A sedimentary material formed by marine organisms that contributes to seabed composition.

Mg/Ca Ratio

A ratio indicating the concentration of Magnesium to Calcium in seawater, reflecting ocean chemistry.

Snowball Earth

Periods in Earth's history when glaciers covered most of the planet.

Mass Extinctions

Punctuations in biodiversity often related to large-scale tectonic events.

Glacial Deposits

Deposits formed from glacial activity, indicative of historical climate changes.

Anomalously High Sea Levels

Periods with higher than normal sea levels, often linked to increased sea floor spreading and plume activity.

Carbon Cycle

The process involving the movement of carbon through the atmosphere, hydrosphere, lithosphere, and biosphere.

Silicate Weathering

The process of breaking down silicate rocks, which removes CO2 from the atmosphere.

Thermal Isolation

The concept that climatic changes can occur due to the ocean's temperature separation from landmass influences.