Tectonic Plate Boundaries and Earthquakes

A collection of vocabulary flashcards covering tectonic plate boundaries, crust types, earthquake mechanics, and disaster hazard responses.

Continental crust

One of the two primary types of Earth's crust, which is less dense than oceanic crust.

Oceanic crust

The denser type of crust that sinks beneath continental crust when the two meet.

Constructive boundary

One of the four main types of tectonic plate boundaries, categorized alongside destructive, collision, and conservative boundaries.

Destructive boundary

A tectonic plate boundary where the denser oceanic crust sinks beneath another plate.

Collision boundary

A type of tectonic plate boundary where plates collide.

Conservative boundary

A type of tectonic plate boundary where plates slide past one another.

Fault

A break or fracture that occurs between tectonic plates when rocks become stuck and pressure builds up within them.

Focus

The point within the Earth where rocks suddenly slip or break and seismic waves are released.

Seismic wave

Waves released when rocks slip or break that travel upward through the Earth, causing the ground to shake.

Epicentre

The location on the Earth's surface situated directly above the focus where seismic waves emerge.

Aftershock

A smaller earthquake that occurs after the main, larger earthquake as tectonic plates are adjusting.

Immediate responses

Post-hazard emergency relief efforts, such as rescue teams, medical aid, food, water, and tents supplied from other countries.

Long-term responses

Reconstruction and mitigation efforts following a tectonic event, such as rebuilding schools and homes, enacting stricter building codes, and holding earthquake drills.