Evidence Supporting the Theory of Plate Tectonics

Flashcards covering key concepts related to the theory of plate tectonics, including evidence from earthquakes, volcanoes, fossil and rock formations, and seafloor spreading.

Earthquakes and volcanoes mostly occur __.

along plate boundaries.

The theory of plate tectonics is supported by the discovery of __ matching fossils on different continents.

Mesosaurus.

New crust forms at __ and pushes older crust away.

mid-ocean ridges.

The magnetic patterns in ocean floor rocks show __ stripes on both sides of ridges.

symmetrical.

Millions of years ago, all continents were joined in a supercontinent called __.

Pangea.

Plate movements are measured by __ which can detect movements of a few centimeters per year.

satellites.

Over __ million years, Pangea broke apart and continents drifted to their present positions.

200.

Matching __, similar rock formations, and glacial deposits support the theory of plate tectonics.

fossils.