Plate Tectonics and Earth's Features

Flashcards covering key concepts from the notes on plate tectonics, lithosphere and asthenosphere, boundary types, subduction, and major active belts.

What is the basic idea of the plate tectonics theory?

The Earth's lithosphere is broken into rigid plates that move over the partially molten asthenosphere.

What are the two main layers involved in plate tectonics and their roles?

The lithosphere (rigid outer shell) is broken into plates that move on the partially molten asthenosphere.

What boundary type is described as constructive or divergent?

Divergent boundaries where plates move apart, often causing seafloor spreading and the creation of new crust.

What boundary type involves collision and possible subduction?

Convergent boundaries where plates collide; one plate may subduct beneath another, forming trenches and mountains.

What is subduction?

The process by which one tectonic plate sinks beneath another into the mantle, typically forming trenches and volcanic arcs.

Name the major active belts around the world mentioned in the notes.

Ring of Fire (Pacific), Alpine–Himalayan Belt, and the Mediterranean region.

What is the Ring of Fire?

A major belt of volcanic and seismic activity encircling the Pacific Ocean.

What does the Alpine–Himalayan Belt refer to?

A mountain-building belt extending from the Alps through Europe into Asia and the Himalayas.

Why does plate tectonics matter?

It explains the distribution of mountains, earthquakes, volcanoes, and the locations of major active belts.