Earth's Changing Systems and Geological Processes

Flashcards covering Earth systems, plate tectonics, the rock cycle, and surface changes such as weathering and erosion based on the provided lecture notes.

earth

The third planet from the sun and the fifth largest planet in our solar system.

earth layers

The layers of the Earth, including the mantle, which is the layer directly beneath the crust whose movement causes Earth's tectonic plates to move.

tectonic plates

Giant pieces of rock that float on top of a constantly moving, semi-liquid layer called the mantle.

boundaries

Areas where the earth plates meet.

rock cycle

A geological concept that describes how the three main types of rocks change over time.

igneous

A term meaning “made of heat or fire”; these rocks are formed when laa or magma cools and solidifies.

sedimentary

A term relating to, containing, or formed from sediment; these rocks are formed when sediment is deposited and compacted together on Earth’s surface.

metamorphic

A term meaning sto change form; these rocks have changed their compostion due to intense heat or pressure.

weathering

A natural process that slowly breaks down or changes rocks on the Earth’s surface.

erosion

The process by which water, wind, and other natural fores cause rocks and earth to wear away.

deposition

The geological process where material is added to a land (or a landform).

mid-ocean ridge

Formed where two tectonic plates meet under the ocean.

fossils

The remains or traces of plants and animals that lived long ago.